8 Towns in Colorado Plateau with Vibrant Downtown Areas

Four of the most storied states in the Western United States combine to make the Colorado Plateau. What makes this all the more impressive is that Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Arizona do so while maintaining their own unique identities. Built upon diverse cultures, small enclaves dotted across the territory have allowed their natural environments to influence the development of their communities. Vibrant energy powers these small towns, from the majestic Rockies to the Sandstone Arches.

Paonia, Colorado

The quaint village of Paonia in the North Fork Valley, derives its name from the peony flower.. The land of the indigenous Ute people was established as Paonia in 1902, although its history dates back centuries. Initially a coal mining town, agriculture is now its biggest industry, particularly fruit crops. Due to its nutrient-rich soils, it is now a popular site for vineyards.

Winery tasting tours have made the town a must-visit destination for oenophiles. Some of the most frequented are the Stone Cottage Cellars and the Black Bridge Winery. Both family-owned and operated, they offer stunning Colorado vistas. Many of these businesses sponsor the Paonia Cherry Days festival in July. A week-long celebration of parades, musical entertainment, and cherry delicacies pays homage to the town's biggest crop producer.

Grand Avenue is lined with shopping and art galleries in the heart of town. Paradise Theatre is a community-run creative arts center where everyone comes together to create a variety of productions that showcase the best of Paonia.

Crested Butte, Colorado

Set along the Rocky Mountains, it comes as little surprise that this hamlet is a winter sports destination. Founded in 1880 as a mining town, it attracts thousands of outdoor thrill seekers annually. Originating as a silver and coal mining town, it wasn't until the late 1960s and the construction of ski resorts that Crested Butte experienced an economic boom.

Unlimited spots to take in the panoramic views are on hand. Victorian-inspired, the Crested Butte Mountain resort is ideal for skiing and hiking. Kebler and Schofield Passes offer scenic views of the Rockies. In the warmer months, the areas are blanketed in a technicolor show of wildflowers, and in the autumn, there is beautiful fall foliage.

Colorado Plateau history abounds at the Crested Butte Mountain Heritage Museum. Fully immersive exhibits include walking tours and narrated re-enactments of the prospectors and homesteaders. For the younger crowd, the interactive Trailhead Children's Museum allows kids to pan for silver and search for fossils. The town center is lined with 19th-century Victorian homes, shops, and eateries. The epicenter for Crested Butte's activities and seasonal festivals, film, wine, and art showcases the best of Gunnison County.

Sedona, Arizona

Settled by ranchers in the mid-19th century, Sedona has taken on a mystical reputation due to its luminescent sandstone towers. Believed to have spiritual powers, it has been a popular tourist destination since 1950. Landmarks, including the Chapel of the Holy Cross, built in 1956, and the Cathedral Rock Trail have been the impetus for various faith-based pilgrimages. Hike along Red Rock State Park and Slide Rock State Park at sunset to watch the sandstone structures go from hues of red to amber and orange. Relax on the Verde Canyon Railroad as it travels through the impressive carved-out landscapes of the canyons.

Sedona's wineries are highly respected within the region, particularly on the Verde Valley Wine Trail. With a climate ideal for grape cultivation, multiple wineries consistently rank by Wine Spectator as elite varietals. Verde Valley Wine Trail offers tours and tastings.

On the banks of Oak Creek are some of the best shopping centers in the state. Famed for its eclectic retail and artistic representation mix, Tlaquepaque Sedona, Arizona's Arts & Crafts Village, is a must-do. Designed to mirror markets in Mexico, visitors can purchase copper, turquoise, and Native American art and wares.

Creede, Colorado

With a population of less than 400 residents, this enclave is rich in prospecting history. Incorporated in 1892, it is referred to as a statutory town, with a legislative team consisting of a mayor and a board of directors who implement the community's laws. It was one of the last silver mining towns still operating in the late 19th century. Homesteads and ranches are now Creedes' main industries, making up 70% of its commerce.

Majestic landscapes and mines now serve as museums and attract tourists from all over the country. Abundant opportunities for hiking and fishing await you at North Clear Creek Falls. A short stroll brings you to waterfalls and some of the best views of wildlife. Hop in your 4 x 4 to experience the scenic Wheeler Geologic Area. This rugged terrain can be hiked or mountain biked, but you need to drive to the base camp, which is not for the faint-hearted.

Retrace the steps of the dedicated prospectors at Last Chance Mine. Built in 1891, this silver mine is complete with mineral hunts and a museum chronicling the life of these 19th-century expeditions. Enthusiastic tour guides will regale you with town legends and help you navigate your way to the Bachelor Loop and maze of trail paths along the mining circuits of Creede. The town center is small, but Main Street is lined with adorable shops, including Creede Trading Company, which harkens back to the old General Stores, and the Abbey Lane Gallery, which showcases the Indigenous influence of the region.

Moab, Utah

Alongside the Colorado River, this magnificent hamlet is named after the area east of the Jordan River. Settled by members of the Church of Latter-day Saints, its breathtaking landscapes were believed to have called them to their pilgrimage in Utah. With both agricultural and mining roots, its heritage is steeped in frontier culture. National parks such as Arches and Canyonlands are considered off-road biking and 4x4 meccas. Ballooning, horseback riding, and hiking are just a few ways to experience the glory of these landscapes.

The Island in the Sky District offers twenty miles of the most striking views in Utah. In Canyonlands National Park, it has multiple camping spots. The Arches is Mother Nature at her very best. Over 2000 sandstone arches in various naturally created sculptures spread across 75,000 acres. Legend has it that Dead Horse Point was explicitly designed by God "to give all the wild mustangs a land free of human interference." Spectacular, extensive views from over 2000 feet high are indeed a spiritual experience.

After a full day of communing with nature, Moab's nightlife vibes—microbreweries, shops, and restaurants—are uniquely Utah. Moab's Backyard Theatre provides nightly live entertainment and the Light and Sound show to accompany the celestial skies.

Taos, New Mexico

Spanish explorers settled this indigenous land in 1615; however, its storied history dates back thousands of years. Taos Pueblo is one of the country's oldest communities, with structures likely built between 1000 and 1450 AD. Rooted in the Rio Grande, it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992 and a National Historic Landmark a decade before. Daily tours give a glimpse of the lives of indigenous peoples and their cultures.

The Enchanted Circle Drive offers panoramic views and vistas along the way to Rio Grande Gorge Bridge. About a ten-mile drive from the center of town, it is one of the most visited sites in the territory. Stretching over 565 feet in height, it received the "Most Beautiful Steel Bridge" upon completion.

Shopping for local flavors, indigenous-inspired art, and custom jewelry abounds at the Taos Plaza. Once a Spanish fortress, the structures themselves are worth the visit.

Estes Park, Colorado

The indigenous land of the Arapaho, Estes Park, attracted hunters and homesteaders in the mid-19th century. Now highly sought after for its endless mountain trails and holistic spas, it has evolved into one of the most popular weekend getaways in Colorado.

Whitewater rafting and trout fishing await at Cache La Poudre River. Amongst the Rocky Mountain National Park, hike the routes surrounding Bear Lake and Alberta Falls or drive the Peak to Peak Scenic Bypass. For breathtaking wide views, hop on the Estes Park Aerial Tramway or stroll along the Riverwalk in Estes Park, with unique art installations dotted along the path. A fun way to take in Colorado's vistas is on the Mustang Mountain Coaster. You control the ride's speed as you glide across the craggy terrain of Estes Park.

Downtown is jam-packed with vibrant energy. Regional cuisine, shopping, and museums around Iush green fields and wildlife. Murals depicting Colorado heritage create a sense of an open-air gallery. For a mountain man breakfast, the Big Horn Restaurant, in operation since 1972, serves up Denver-style omelets in rustic craft-style decor.

Breckenridge, Colorado

This vacation destination was a former mining territory that saw an economic boom when the first ski resorts were built in the late 1960s. Since then, Breckenridge has welcomed over one million tourists each year. As with its neighboring counterparts, Telluride and Aspen, the most popular season is winter. However, this quaint village is full of reasons to visit year-round.

In the warmer months, the landscapes become a canvas of wildflowers. Blue Lake trails are optimal for picturesque views and off-road biking. The visitors center offers fly fishing guides and kayak rentals. Horseback riding tours are available at Breck Stables and are ideal for navigating some of the more craggy terrain. Victorian-influenced, Breckenridge's historic district is lined with colorful homes and locally owned shopping. By eschewing big chain retailers, the majority of businesses are locally sourced and benefit the state of Colorado.

Plan Your Visit to These Colorado Plateau Gems

As John Denver once said, "Everything comes together for a purpose; we are on this earth as one people, so let's make it all that we can." Fittingly, the appeal of the Colorado Plateau is not merely a result of its awe-inspiring countryside. In fact, the territory is secondary to the communities that welcome you, whether you are setting down roots or simply passing through. The desire to showcase their homes is carried through everything they do. There is no such thing as a stranger here, and reason enough to plan your next trip to these towns and their authentically vibrant energies.