8 Prettiest Downtown Strips In Colorado

In 2023, Colorado welcomed over 93 million visitors, marking a booming year for the state’s tourism industry. However, many of those travelers head straight for the Rockies, drawn by the promise of mountain adventures. While Colorado’s outdoor recreation is undeniably among the best in the country, many of its towns have equally impressive downtown areas that deserve attention, too. Complimented by opera houses, art museums, and barbecue joints, the downtowns of these eight towns are among the prettiest to explore in Colorado.

Estes Park

While many towns require a drive to reach their natural attractions, Estes Park brings the outdoors straight to its downtown district. The Estes Park Aerial Tramway is a perfect example, departing from the center of town and climbing to the summit of the scenic Prospect Mountain. Just a two-minute drive from the tramway, travelers will find the Open Air Adventure Park, which features an aerial adventure course, axe throwing, kayaking, and more. To learn about the history of the town, stop by Estes Park Museum, which brings the town’s history to life through interactive displays and exhibits. There are plenty of places to unwind in the evening, such as Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co., a family-friendly brewery with lagers, IPAs, Pilsners, Pale Ales, and more.

Telluride

Telluride’s downtown district is always energized with live performances and art events. The Sheridan Opera House, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is a favorite for an intimate concert, a cozy venue with just 238 seats. Once a month, local galleries and art organizations open their doors from 4 to 7 pm to showcase new artwork during the town’s Art Walk. Travelers can learn more about Telluride’s history at the Telluride Historical Museum, which has permanent exhibits that dig into its geological history, Indigenous peoples, mining history, and more. Those seeking a hearty meal can dine at Brown Dog Pizza, which is known for its signature Detroit-style pizza.

Ouray

Home to fewer than 1,000 residents, Ouray’s downtown area is small, but packed with attractions. Visitors can check out the calendar of events at the Wright Opera House, a historic venue that has been entertaining Ouray since 1888. The Ouray County Historical Society is just a six-minute walk from the Opera House and shares the history of Ouray County through exhibits, archives, and educational programs. To unwind in Ouray’s hot springs, spend an afternoon—or even a night—at the Wiesbaden Hot Springs Spa & Lodgings, where you can enjoy an outdoor mineral pool, vapor cave, and soaking pool. The award-winning Ouray Brewery is another wonderful place to relax, serving an extensive menu of in-house craft beers.

Breckenridge

While Breckenridge is perhaps most known for its skiing scene, its downtown village is just as trip-worthy. Travelers looking to soak up the sunshine can relax at Blue River Plaza, a scenic riverside spot with beautiful landscaping, public art, and mountain views. The Breckenridge Alpine Garden is another hidden gem downtown, situated along the Blue River and featuring a variety of mountain plants and flowers. Visitors can also stop by some of the downtown district’s art galleries, such as Breckenridge Gallery, which has been showcasing fine art since 1969. For a drink and hearty meal, finish your day at the Breckenridge Brewpub, which serves mac n cheese, burgers, fish n chips, and other pub favorites.

Durango

Durango has a rich railroad history that visitors can explore throughout the downtown district. At the D&SNGRR Railroad Museum, visitors can experience the town’s railroad heritage with free admission and frequently updated exhibits. Afterwards, hop aboard the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which departs right in the heart of Durango and connects with Silverton, serving the community since the 1880s. For a souvenir, there are plenty of art galleries to browse. Toh-Atin Gallery is an excellent local one to check out, specializing in authentic Native American and Southwest art. If you need a refuel, you will never be far from a coffee shop downtown. Durango Coffee Company is a local favorite, known for its specialty coffees, fresh pastries, and cozy café atmosphere.

Crested Butte

Crested Butte has an abundance of cozy coffee shops and breakfast spots to check out. If you are looking for something casual to start the day, consider stopping by Butte Bagels, which makes all of its bagels and bagel sandwiches fresh daily. Camp4Coffee is another casual option, serving sweet pastries, cookies, donuts, espresso drinks, drip coffee, and smoothies. If you are in the mood for a more elaborate breakfast or lunch, McGill's is the place to be, offering a full menu of American classics. The town largely preserves its culture and history at the Crested Butte Museum, which features exhibits that discuss the town’s relationship with coal mining, mountain biking, skiing, and railroads.

Trinidad

If you enjoy museum hopping, you will have plenty to explore in Trinidad. The first museum to add to your itinerary is the A.R. Mitchell Museum of Western Art, which showcases Western, Native American, and Spanish art pieces. Afterwards, walk just over a block to the Trinidad History Museum, where you can explore two historic 19th-century homes, the Baca-Bloom Heritage Gardens, and the Santa Fe Trail Museum, all on one site. Travelers can take a lunch break at the Trinidad Smokehouse, which serves barbecue, burgers, prime rib, and other mouthwatering dishes. Visitors can conclude their museum tour at the Trinidad Railroad Museum, which uses exhibits, authentic artifacts, and educational programs to preserve Trinidad’s railroad history.

Cañon City

As the third-oldest city in Colorado, the historic district in Cañon City is truly one of a kind. Today, the area is lined with local shops and boutiques, making it a great spot for an afternoon of shopping. Travelers looking for a vintage souvenir can head over to Autumn's Attic, which sells antiques, knicknacks, art, jewelry, clothing, furniture, and home goods. Tailored West is another charming boutique to check out, selling western-style hats, clothing, footwear, and jewelry. To understand more of Canon City’s history, make sure to spend an hour or two at the Royal Gorge Regional Museum & History Center, which has an extensive collection of artifacts that date back as far as the 1870s. For a refreshing glass of wine, travelers can visit The Winery At Holy Cross Abbey, a local winery set on the historic abbey grounds, with a tasting room open daily.

Final Thoughts

Home to countless mountain peaks, rivers, and forests, Colorado is a vacationer’s paradise. If this natural beauty were not already enough of a reason to visit, many of the state’s small towns are also lively with all kinds of museums, art galleries, and hot springs resorts. So after a day or two in the wilderness, be sure to set aside some time to explore these beautiful downtown strips. You will not regret it!