9 Small Towns In Colorado To Visit For A Weekend Getaway
Colorado is a high-country state where mountains and plains meet. Much of its land rises into the Rocky Mountains, and major rivers such as the Colorado River carve valleys that draw hikers, skiers, and road-trippers year after year. Layered on top of that landscape is a long human story, from mining camps and ranch towns to rail-era resorts. If you are thinking of taking a getaway weekend in Colorado, these small towns will intrigue and delight you, and definitely belong on your list for the year ahead.
Grand Lake
True to its name, this small town sits on the shores of Grand Lake. Appropriately, visitors may want to stay at The Historic Rapids Lodge and Restaurant, which is situated along the North Inlet. Guests can enjoy views of the rapids while they dine. Afterward, they can head to Grand Lake Town Beach to take in wide views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Visitors can go kayaking or swimming, or simply stroll along the water. Those looking for a more rigorous afternoon can follow the North Inlet Trail, which winds along the water, passes through woodlands, and reaches Cascade Falls. Guests who remain in town can spend time at the Kauffman House Museum. The museum was first constructed in 1892 and operated as a hotel until 1946. It is the only late nineteenth-century log hotel still standing in Grand Lake and is currently listed on the National Register of Historic Places
Breckenridge
Breckenridge is a prime destination for those who love to ski, and visitors to the area often stay at Breckenridge Ski Resort. This mountain resort offers spacious accommodations, along with easy access to gondola rides and high-altitude skiing. Travelers interested in the town itself can join historic tours of the area. Outings depart for places such as the Lomax Placer Mine and Washington Mine Site, where visitors can explore the story of mining and gold panning in the region. Guides also lead tours through the nationally recognized Breckenridge Historic District. Here, guests will find the Old Masonic Hall, a restored building first constructed in 1892 that now hosts art exhibitions and workshops. Just around the corner, you can spend a relaxed day picnicking by the river at Blue River Plaza. While you are out exploring, follow the Trollstigen Trail to find the well-known Breckenridge Troll, a 15-foot-tall wooden troll sculpture.
La Veta
The town of La Veta appeals to anyone who enjoys grand mountain views. You can stay right in the center of town at La Veta Inn, which gives you easy access to everything the area offers. Shops and dining options sit just outside along Main Street. When you are ready to explore, walk down Main Street to the Francisco Fort Museum. Built in 1862, it preserves the original adobe fort and schoolhouse along with a recreated general store that shows what life was like in La Veta in the past. From there, set out on the Highway of Legends National Scenic Byway. Take an afternoon drive and enjoy the free audio tour that highlights forests, meadows, and other natural landmarks. The 82-mile byway runs between Walsenburg and Trinidad, passing through La Veta and the Spanish Peaks region. Remember to tour Uptop Ghost Town while you are in the area. Originally a 40-acre settlement, it includes nearly a dozen preserved nineteenth-century buildings that give a glimpse into the region's past.
Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs is another ski destination, and visitors often stay at Steamboat Ski Resort for easy access to snow tubing and downhill runs. You can also enjoy the great outdoors at Fish Creek Falls, a nature area crisscrossed by hiking trails and home to a roughly 283-foot waterfall. Back in town, you can unwind at the Yampa River Botanic Park, which combines carefully tended gardens with summer concerts in the open air. A short walk away, the Tread of Pioneers Museum traces the story of Steamboat Springs, from early Indigenous communities to the rise of skiing and the town's long Olympic tradition.
Paonia
The town of Paonia, situated along the North Fork of the Gunnison River, is ideal for those who love the outdoors. The Rocky Mountain Inn is a convenient place to spend your weekend, putting you about a ten-minute walk from Paonia River Park, where you can follow riverside paths or grab lunch after time in the water. Right next door sits the Paonia Museum and Bowie School House, which holds artifacts from the mining period in nearby Bowie, Colorado. The schoolhouse was built in 1907 and remained in use until 1950, after which it was relocated to Paonia for display. The site gives history enthusiasts a close look at the region's past. When you are ready for another outing, head to Paonia State Park. This popular spot has a boat ramp for launching onto the reservoir, fishing areas, opportunities for jet skiing and paddleboarding, and plenty of trails for hiking or biking.
Vail
Vail is home to the world-famous Vail Ski Resort, and it should come as no surprise that many visitors stay there to enjoy time on the slopes. The resort offers plenty to do. Beyond skiing and gondola rides, it hosts live music events and special dining experiences. The Betty Ford Alpine Gardens are another popular stop. These botanical gardens help conserve various plant collections and include exhibits that highlight insects, beavers, and birds' nests. You may also want to walk the paths along Gore Creek and cross the covered bridge, a local landmark that remains a favorite backdrop for photos. Dining spots line nearby Gore Creek Drive if you want a meal before heading back to the resort.
Central City
History fans will enjoy Central City, a historic mining town established in 1859 during the Gold Rush. A convenient place to stay is the Grand Z Hotel Casino in the historic downtown, which puts you right in the middle of the city's landmarks. Nearby, the Gilpin History Museum occupies a former two-story school built in 1869, with exhibits that recreate Main Street, classrooms, and mining scenes. For a more hands-on look at local history, consider booking with Earth Treasures Tours. Their tour of “The Richest Square Mile on Earth” covers the 1859 discovery of gold and the ensuing rush, including a stop at the original gold strike, nearby mine ruins, and ghost towns. You might also visit the historic Teller House, a roughly 150-year-old structure once promoted as “the finest hotel west of the Mississippi,” where concerts and cabarets still take place throughout the year.
Georgetown
Georgetown is a wonderful outdoor destination situated along Georgetown Lake. A popular place to stay is Microtel Inn and Suites, which puts you right along the shores. You will be able to visit the lake park for a walk around it on Purdy Trail or cast a line out for a day of fishing. A more adventurous day awaits at nearby Clear Lake. Sitting at an elevation of 9,873 feet, this destination is popular among those seeking to fish and camp overnight. Canoes and kayaks can set out on the water, and a few picnic tables are available for those who want to grill. And for a real view of the great outdoors, hop aboard the Georgetown Loop Railroad. Tours take guests in open-air cars led by steam locomotives, as these trains provide impeccable views of the surrounding forests and mountains.
Crested Butte
Another popular spot for those who love the great outdoors is Crested Butte. A cozy place to stay is Purple Mountain Bed and Breakfast, which offers not only luxurious rooms but a spa, gourmet breakfast, and daily craft beer tastings. Once you are ready to see the natural beauty of the area, you can head to any of the Lupine Trails or travel the Gunsight Pass Trail. The OH Be Joyful Campground is just five minutes from town and is a great place to launch your hikes, especially if you want to see majestic waterfalls that flow into the creek. There are also outdoor festivals and events that Crested Butte is well known for. The Crested Butte Arts Festival has been held since 1971 and showcases local artists, currently one of the most well-known fine art shows in the Western U.S.
Natural Beauty And Incredible History
Colorado is a mountain state full of contrast, from the waterfalls along Crested Butte Creek to the heights of the Spanish Peaks. It is also a place with a deep culture and history, full of memorable sights such as the Breckenridge Troll and the mines that have been in operation since the gold rush. If you are thinking of a weekend getaway in Colorado, confidently make any of these small towns your next destination. You won't regret it.
