8 Most Beautiful Small Towns In Colorado You Should Visit
Colorado is arguably one of the most beautiful states to visit in the United States. From the incredible Rocky Mountains to its colorful valleys, the beauty of Colorado is unparalleled. Its inviting small towns attract people from all over the country to check out its abundance of beauty. From agricultural communities to adventurous destinations, Colorado is where historic charm meets mountain recreation. Whether you’re drawn to outdoor adventure, family-friendly events, or mountain ski retreats, these are eight of the most beautiful small towns in Colorado you should visit.
Morrison
Morrison is a small town located just west of Denver along the Hogback rock formation. Morrison feels worlds away from the city while remaining close enough for convenience. This unique balance is why the town proudly calls itself “The Nearest Faraway Place.” Its rural atmosphere is best known as the home of Red Rocks Amphitheatre, one of the most iconic natural concert venues in the country. This open-air amphitheater hosts more than 200 events each year, ranging from concerts and yoga sessions to film screenings, ensuring that there is something for everyone.
Beyond Red Rocks, Morrison offers a unique selection of restaurants and rooftop dining options. Tony Rigatoni’s and the associated Rooftop Tavern deliver a splendid home-style twist on Italian cuisine, complete with cocktails, wine, and small appetizers that can also be enjoyed from its rooftop setting. Another local favorite is the Red Rocks Beer Garden, housed in a historic 1870 cottage with a spacious open-air patio, making it an ideal spot to savor some Colorado-made beers, wines, and spirits.
Estes Park
Located at the eastern entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park is a beautiful mountain town surrounded by the peaks of the Rockies. Known for its breathtaking scenery, the town offers unparalleled access to hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and sweeping mountain views from every angle. Home to fewer than 6,000 residents, Estes Park attracts both individuals and families looking for a peaceful, close-knit community that is totally immersed in nature.
Visitors can stroll along the town's main streets for souvenirs at the many gift shops, enjoy Irish cuisine at local favorites like Lonigan’s, or experience thrills on the Mustang Mountain Coaster. The Estes Park Aerial Tramway connects downtown to the summit of Prospect Mountain, offering panoramic views with a small gift shop, coffee and a bar. Wherever you go in Estes Park, stunning scenery is never far away, making it an ideal destination for those seeking the natural beauty of Colorado.
Littleton
Close to the South Platte River Trail, Littleton offers ample opportunities for fishing, walking, biking, and outdoor programs for families and nature lovers. One of the town’s standout attractions is the Hudson Gardens, a beautifully landscaped space that hosts seasonal events throughout the year, including Halloween and Christmas festivals.
Downtown Littleton is known for its vibrant dining scene, including popular spots like Angelo’s Taverna, which serves casual Italian fare, oysters, and cocktails in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Littleton’s history dates back to 1859 during the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush, one of the largest mining booms in US history.
Paonia
Located in Colorado’s North Fork Valley, Paonia is a small agricultural town of about 2,000 residents that is known for its strong emphasis on sustainability and community. The town is well-known for its organic farms, orchards, and wineries, with The Living Farm standing out as a local organic farm.
The valley gained national recognition in the late 1800s for its peaches, cherries, pears, and vineyards, even winning awards at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. Today, Paonia continues that legacy through its many farmers markets offering seasonal produce, wool goods, and handmade crafts. Similar to other Colorado cities, Paonia's outdoor recreation is also plentiful, with easy access to hiking, fishing, camping, and Paonia State Park.
Golden
Golden, Colorado is ideal for those who appreciate old-town charm. Trail systems rise directly from the town into the foothills, providing access to Clear Creek, Lookout Mountain, and miles of protected open space. Downtown Golden is walkable and welcoming, filled with shops, restaurants, and historic sites, as well as the highly rated coffee shop, Higher Grounds Cafe.
A must-see historical visit is the Colorado Railroad Museum, an expansive indoor-outdoor attraction featuring more than 100 vintage trains and interactive exhibits. During the winter months, families can enjoy the popular Polar Express train ride for a festive holiday experience.
Longmont
Situated in northern Colorado — and the most populous town on our list — Longmont strikes a balance between urban convenience and small-town comfort. The city features the St. Vrain Greenway, an approximately eight-mile network of paved and gravel trails that is perfect for walking, biking, and running. The town is named after Longs Peak, a prominent mountain that can be seen from the city.
Families and golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round at the historic Sunset Golf Course, a 100-year-old course located right in the heart of downtown, offering a unique blend of recreation and local history. Longmont boasts a large brewing scene, with the Left Hand Brewing Company standing out as one of the most popular; it offers a variety of microbrews, tours on weekends, and special events.
Salida
Designated as a Certified Colorado Creative District, the small town of Salida is known for its vibrant arts scene, featuring galleries, coffee shops, and live music venues. Located along the Arkansas River, the town offers abundant outdoor recreation such as kayaking, fly fishing, and the popular Salida Whitewater Park.
It's also home to the Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center, a family friendly aquatic center with lap and leisure pools filled with water from the hot springs. The town sits near Monarch Mountain, which features a world-class ski resort celebrated for its high elevation, abundant snowfall, scenic views, and diverse terrain.
Telluride
Telluride blends dramatic mountain scenery with a rich sense of history. At the heart of town is the Telluride Historic District, where Victorian storefronts and brick buildings line the streets. Along the town's main street, visitors can browse local shops and enjoy coffee at beloved hometown favorites. Learn about the town’s past at the Telluride Historical Museum that features exhibits, photographs, and artifacts detailing the area’s development.
The free Telluride-Mountain Village Gondola connects the town to the mountain slopes offering breathtaking valley views. Telluride's outdoor highlights include the Jud Wiebe Trail, known for its stunning fall aspens, peaceful areas within Town Park, and Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado’s tallest free-falling waterfall, located just a short drive from town.
Colorado's Beautiful, Must-See Towns
From iconic mountain towns to creative communities and historic small cities, these eight Colorado small towns offer the perfect blend of natural beauty, culture, and charm. Anyone looking to explore the state has to experience all the unique and diverse destinations Colorado offers. From the unparalleled scenery of Estes Park to the rural farmland and close-knit community of Paonia, there is truly a town for everyone to discover.
