Colorado's 6 Most Laid-Back Towns
Immerse yourself in a real-life fairy tale, surrounded by mesmerizing mountain vistas, sparkling rivers, and soothing hot springs, as you experience the natural beauty of "The Centennial State." From the natural wonders of Telluride to the healing mineral properties of Glenwood Springs, prepare for an unforgettable adventure that will leave your mind, body, or soul feeling completely restored, refreshed, and rejuvenated, as you set out to explore Colorado's six most laid-back towns.
Telluride
From majestic mountain scenery to picture-perfect town vistas straight out of a storybook, Telluride is a gorgeous destination, certainly well worth the visit. This Victorian gem is also filled with historic structures depicting its rich mining past and was designated a National Historic Landmark District in the 1960s, due to its significant role in American West history. Meander through Town Park, seeing the stunning San Juan Mountains, spending time at the fishing pond, or playing sports on the fields.
This is also where several music and arts festivals take place annually, including the renowned Telluride Bluegrass Festival. The Telluride Yoga Festival is another iconic four-day gathering for health and wellness fanatics that will certainly inspire you to reconnect with your mind, body, and Earth in a beautiful, laid-back setting. Make sure you take the free 12-minute gondola ride 10,000 feet up to Mountain Village, soaking in the stunning scenery of Telluride from above.
Estes Park
Welcome to Estes Park, an absolute paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Situated over 7,500 feet above sea level, this is the base camp for the world-famous Rocky Mountain National Park. While nature lovers can see the glistening alpine lakes and majestic mountain peaks of the National Park, where over 300 miles of hiking trails and outstanding wildlife viewing opportunities await, there is also plenty to do in town. Estes Park boasts over 300 shops, offering a diverse range of goods, from handmade items to outdoor gear and culinary delights, all set in a relaxed atmosphere that will appeal to all travelers. You can take the Estes Park Aerial Tram up to the summit of Prospect Mountain, uncovering picture-perfect panoramic views from about 8,700 feet above. However, if you do prefer to stay on the ground or are a foodie at heart, venues like The Barrel, a rustic Bavarian-style beer garden and hall, backdropped by the Rockies, are wonderful hubs to connect with others and get to know the local community in one of Colorado's six most laid-back towns.
Paonia
If you would like to experience an even quieter side to Colorado, Paonia, with its picture-perfect wineries, local organic farms, vibrant artistic community, and scenic hiking trails, is a spectacular place to visit. Shop for fresh produce, taste Black Bridge wines, or try Aged Balsamic Vinegars and Infused Olive Oils in the Black Bridge Winery Orchard Valley Farms Market. Watch a movie at Paradise Theatre, a quaint, Historic Landmark that has been offering diverse, quality art and entertainment since 1928. Treat yourself to a tasty lunch or breakfast paired with hot coffee, fresh fudge, delicious smoothies, and soft-serve ice cream at The Berg Harvest Mercantile, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere amid beautiful views of Mount Lamborn.
Ouray
Commonly referred to as "The Switzerland of America" with its majestic mountain vistas, Ouray is truly a hidden wonder—and one of Colorado's six most laid-back towns. Surround yourself with the stunning San Juan Mountains as you explore this fascinating town, established in the 1870s, teeming with history and natural beauty. Soak in the rejuvenating sulfur-free waters of the Ouray Hot Springs Pool, and see the thundering Box Cañon Falls; see the 285-foot waterfall plunging into a captivating narrow quartzite canyon. Treat yourself to an incredibly relaxing holiday staying at Wiesbaden Hot Springs Spa & Lodgings. An outdoor swimming pool, a 108-degree hot springs vapor cave, and even a private soaking pool with a serene waterfall await.
Salida
Spend some time by the banks of the beautiful Arkansas River to explore Salida. This scenic oasis is a lovely place for relaxing by the water or enjoying engaging outdoor activities. Enjoy camping, picnicking, wildlife viewing, kayaking, hiking, or even mountain biking and rock climbing in the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA). From the sparkling shores to the broad valleys, deep canyons, and stunning mountain peaks of the upper Arkansas River Valley, you will be blown away by the area's natural beauty. Next, taste fine modern spirits, creative craft cocktails, and locally sourced brews in a 100-year-old building at Wood's High Mountain Distillery. Animal lovers can also enjoy an unforgettable experience, making new friends at Hallmark Ranch Alpacas, open for public ranch visits.
Glenwood Springs
Discover Glenwood Springs, a destination that will welcome you in with open arms—and soothing hot springs. Here lies Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, the largest outdoor mineral hot springs in the world. Experience the serene, calming effects of the mineral-filled mountain water in the Yampah Mineral Baths, go swimming in the Grand Pool, over two city blocks long, unwind in the 104-degree Therapy Pool, or take the kids to play in the Sopris Splash Zone. For even further relaxation, spend the afternoon at Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves. Let yourself be pampered with restorative spa treatments, letting the mineral-rich air infuse your senses in this geothermal wonder. Regarding architectural marvels, Hotel Colorado is a sight you have to see. This exquisite hotel, dating back to 1893, was modeled after Rome's extraordinary 16th-century Italian Renaissance Villa de Medici.
Experience Colorado
So, there you have it—Colorado's six most laid-back towns. Whether your idea of relaxation involves lying back in soothing hot springs surrounded by mountains, experiencing annual town traditions and festivities, discovering locally owned shops in the heart of downtown, or unraveling scenic town vistas from thousands of feet up in the air, "The Centennial State" is home to breathtaking smaller towns that are certainly worth a visit. Turn your travel dreams into reality and explore Colorado today!
