7 Old-World Towns To Visit In The Colorado Plateau
The Colorado Plateau covers a giant million acres across multiple states, including Utah, Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico. Full of scenic views of Red Rock canyons, alpine forests, and peaks, the Colorado Plateau is a popular tourist destination. People are drawn into the area because of the breathtaking scenery, opportunities for outdoor adventure and the unique culture of the area. In the historic towns of the Colorado Plateau, there is even more to enjoy. Towns such as Moab have unique museums such as the Moab Giant's Museum, the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring. Other towns, such as Gallup, New Mexico, transport visitors back in time with historic architecture. Here, we explore seven old-world towns to visit on the Colorado Plateau. By the end of this article, you will be convinced to add them to your travel bucket list.
Moab Utah
Moab is a town that draws people in for the outdoor adventure opportunities. Here, you can enjoy mountain biking on Slickrock Trail or hiking to landmarks such as the Delicate Arch and Colorado River's Gooseneck. Moab also has a unique history to explore. Learn about Moab's prehistoric times at the Moab Giant's Museum. Here, you can walk outside and see 100 life-size dinosaur replicas. Afterward, check out the Film Museum at Red Cliffs Ranch and learn about the area's history in the film industry. Learn about indigenous cultures by visiting the rock imagery sites of the Anasazi and Fremont people. The dusty red sandstone tells Moab's history through a different lens. Afterward, venture to one of the nearby state parks to experience more of the beauty of the Red Rock State. Check out Dead Horse Point State Park to see stunning overlooks in canyon country.
Williams, Arizona
Right on the south rim of the Grand Canyon is the charming town of Williams, Arizona. The town is a hidden gem, with unique historic attractions such as the Grand Canyon Railway and the Route 66 Museum. Hop on the Grand Canyon Railway for a unique way to experience the beauty of the Grand Canyon. Visitors in Williams must take a walk down the town's Main Street, Route 66. The town recreated what the street was like in the early 1900s, making it a fun place to explore and window shop at the souvenir shops and diners. A unique way to see Route 66 is by zipline. The zipline operates throughout most of the year and is closed for the winter months. Nearby the town, check out the local lakes. Kaibab Lake Campground, Dogtown Cape Campground, and Kaibab National Forest are all great spots to experience the serenity of lake life while not straying too far from the town.
Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is a desert mecca that draws in artists, outdoor adventurers, and hippies. This is a town where visitors can unwind and reconnect with nature. Experience the beauty of Sedona with a hike to one of the town's four vortexes. The four vortexes are at the Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Boynton Canyon. These are places believed by some to have supernatural healing powers. In town, visit Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village. Fashioned after a traditional Mexican village, this area of town offers a distinctive shopping experience. The vine-covered stucco walls, cobble-stoned walkways, and archways transport visitors to the past. Walk around the village's forty shops and explore exclusive art galleries. Outside Tlaquepaque, take a walking tour of Sedona's art galleries. A few to add to your list of galleries to visit include Greg Lawson Galleries, Sedona Artist Market, Object of Desire Gallery, The Melting Tree, and Rumi Tree Art Gallery. To cool off from the desert, head to Grasshopper Point. There are many trails that lead to emerald green Oak Creek, a great spot for a picnic or swim.
Mancos, Colorado
Mancos is normally a town people stop over in on their way to places such as Mancos State Park. However, the charming historic streets often draw people into the town to stay longer. The quaint town's charm inspired the famous Western writer Louis L'Amour. Walking along the streets downtown, some of the historical buildings you can see include Columbine Bar, one of the oldest bars in Colorado; Main Street cattle drives; and Artisans of Mancos. Mancos is a particularly unique Western town because of the numerous Artisans that have occupied the area. Walk in Manco's Creative District to experience the art the town has to offer. Stop at Kilgore American Indian Art to see a vintage and antique American Indigenous art collection. In November, visit Mancos for their Artist Sunday, where artists and makers display and sell their art. Less than ten miles from Mancos, check out the famed Mesa Verde National Park. Here, you can explore ancient cliff dwellings, hike scenic trails, or take a self-guided driving tour.
Gallup, New Mexico
Gallup brings visitors back in time with its relaxed, friendly atmosphere and vibrant culture. Often called the "Gateway to Native America," Gallup celebrates local indigenous culture and its railroad history. Visit the Gallup Cultural Center to learn more about indigenous cultures in the area and the town's unique history. Other museums to visit to learn about local culture include the Red Rock Museum and the Rex Museum. Walk around the downtown and stop at local eateries to taste authentic New Mexican and Native American-inspired dishes. Anthony's A Taste of the Southwest is a great restaurant known for its must-try dish stuffed sopapilla with beef, prepared Christmas style. Genaro's Café is another delicious spot, known for its New Mexican-style plates. Gallup is also home to a collection of unique murals just a walk away from the downtown area. Inspired by local history and cultures, the murals tell the story of the locals. There is a downtown walking tour of the murals that stops at 24 of the murals, including a large print of Jewels and Java by artist Anthony Sanchez.
Durango, Colorado
Durango is a charming town packed with history and nature. Walking through the town's historic downtown, stop at one of the museums to learn about the local history of the area. Check out the local history & railroads museums such as Southern Ute Cultural Center & Museum, Roundhouse Museum, and Durango Elks Lodge Museum. The town is also home to many art galleries that explore historic southwestern and modern mountain culture. A few galleries that show the work of local artists include Blue Rain Gallery, The Art Experience, and Joyful Nook Gallery. Enjoy a ride on the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. The train takes visitors through the canyons of southwest Colorado’s San Juan National Fores. Enjoy an overnight stay in Durango at one of the rustic, quiet cabins. Colorado Trails Ranch and Blu Lake Ranch are both quiet getaways to enjoy the mountains and old timey town.
Torrey, Utah
Torrey, Utah, is a quiet town, home to less than 300 residents. Surrounded by green meadows and sandstone cliffs, Torrey is a dreamy, slow-paced town that transports visitors to a simpler time. The town is full of homey eateries and cafes to enjoy. The Wild Rabbit Café is a local favorite for coffee. Shooke Coffee offers artisan coffee roasted in town. The Dark Sky Coffee honors Torrey's place in the International Dark Sky Community. The limited light pollution means the stars are almost always visible. Just a few minutes from town, explore Thousand Lake Mountain. This is a great spot to enjoy hikes through lush forests and rimming rusty sandstone canyons. Visitors can also paddle down the lake. Torrey is also near Capitol Reef National Park, an outdoor adventure haven full of hiking and biking opportunities. In the summer, the town hosts the annual Cowboy Music and Poetry Festival, welcoming artists to the town.
Overall, these seven towns make a great travel destination. In Durango, visitors can enjoy looking at the town's numerous museums, such as the Roundhouse Museum and Durango Elks Lodge Museum, and learning about the local history. In Mancos, visitors can enjoy looking at unique art and cute shops. Sedona offers visitors the therapeutic power of the four vortexes and the charm of a traditional Mexican village. Whether you are looking to explore the outdoors or learn about the Colorado Plateau's historic towns, these towns have something for everyone. If you're planning your next trip, consider visiting one of these historic towns. The breathtaking views and charming history make for a great place to make memories.
