The Best Small Towns in Colorado to Chill Out
When one needs some quality time to chill out, Colorful Colorado comes calling. While the Rocky Mountains here provide plenty of opportunities for exciting recreation, the state also has places perfectly suited for kicking back, relaxing, and appreciating the red rock formations and splashes of color the state is known for, including at Garden of the Gods, and along the banks of the Colorado River, whose waters can turn a reddish-brown after heavy storms. Whether soaking in natural hot springs, strolling through a wondrous red rock wonderland, enjoying a quiet spiritual retreat in the wilderness, or simply being pampered in a luxury resort spa, Colorado has it all and so much more.
From Estes Park and Crestone to Steamboat Springs, uncover the best small towns in Colorado to chill out.
Steamboat Springs
High in the Rocky Mountains of northwestern Colorado, about 154 miles northwest of Denver, is Steamboat Springs, a town named for hot springs that trappers initially mistook for the sound of a steamboat in the 1870s. Fast forward to 2026, and Steamboat Springs still has great places to soak up those soothing waters. In particular, Strawberry Park Natural Hot Springs has an expansive complex of spring-fed thermal pools set in the forest, and they offer a full menu of spa treatments like massages and facials. It is also worth checking out Old Town Hot Springs, a local non-profit wellness center complete with outdoor hot spring-fed pools, massage therapy, and a fully equipped fitness center.
In case anyone needs a little excitement during their Steamboat trip, there is Steamboat Ski Area, the region’s premier ski and snowboard destination with 184 trails across 3,741 acres providing up to 3,666 feet in vertical. And right near the ski area lies Sheraton Steamboat Resort Villas, a comfortable resort that makes guests feel right at home with plush and spacious rooms and suites.
Estes Park
Around 42 miles southwest of Fort Collins is Estes Park, the perfect gateway to one of the United States’ most beloved national parks. Speaking of the park, Rocky Mountain National Park extends some 415 square miles, straddles both sides of the Continental Divide, and has numerous trails for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. After a busy day at the park, visitors can return to town and chill out at Elements of Touch Wellness Spa, a lovely local business where skilled therapists provide massages, facials, and additional restorative treatments.
For those who need some sustenance, Rock Cut Brewing Company often hosts local food trucks and serves its all-star lineup of artisan craft beers. And for the ultimate Estes Park experience, guests can stay at The Stanley Hotel, the world-famous historic resort sporting classically elegant rooms and suites, themed specialty tours, The Vault craft whiskey lounge, and a full-service spa.
Nederland
Just 17 miles west of Boulder lies Nederland, a laid-back mountain town that is picture-perfect for finding oneself while “getting lost” in the backcountry. After all, the Indian Peaks Wilderness is nearby, and this 73,391-acre preserve has over 50 lakes, some 28 hiking trails spanning across 133 miles, and includes six passes that cross the Continental Divide. Meanwhile, for thrills on open snow, it is a short drive to Eldora Mountain Resort, Boulder County’s “backyard mountain” sporting 61 trails across 680 acres, which is often highly regarded as Colorado’s best spot to learn how to ski.
Once ready to call it a day, it is easy to check in and spend the night at The Boulder Creek Lodge. This boutique hotel offers rooms and suites with charming views of Boulder Creek, as well as a convenient location in town and near the ski resort.
Manitou Springs
Manitou Springs sits directly west of Colorado Springs, and it makes the ideal “base camp” for exploring the finest treasures of this region. For starters, there is the Garden of the Gods, a majestic geological wonder with over 15 miles of trails that reach a number of striking sandstone red rock formations, marking the convergence of the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains. In addition, Manitou Springs is within easy reach of “America’s Mountain” at Pikes Peak, the famed 14,115-foot-tall mountain that visitors can ascend via climbing, driving, and even riding a cog railway.
Returning to town, it is also worth stopping at Miramont Castle to tour this 1895 Victorian-style, 34-room mansion and partake in an elegant session of high tea (available by appointment). To complete the perfect Manitou Springs getaway, guests can stay at The Cliff House at Pikes Peak, a stately Victorian hotel with plush guest rooms and suites, along with delectable dining at the formal Dining Room and the more laid-back Red Mountain Bar and Grill.
Crestone
Nestled on the western slope of the Sangre de Cristo Range is Crestone, an alluring haven for spiritual seekers and ambitious explorers. For those wanting enlightenment, Dharma Sangha’s Crestone Mountain Zen Center invites guests to learn Zen Buddhist practices for holistic wellness, and the Hindu Haidakhandi Universal Ashram also regularly welcomes visitors to its temple. Then, for folks who crave natural beauty and outdoor adventures, the nearby Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve has everything from mountain peaks surpassing 10,000 feet above sea level to North America’s tallest sand dunes and the elusive water of Medano Creek.
Whatever brings one to Crestone, it is easy to find additional rest and relaxation at The Bliss Inn. They have a wide variety of guest rooms and larger residences available to book, plus they operate their own “fine-ish dining” restaurant with a menu full of eclectic, globally inspired dishes.
Aspen
For years, Aspen has been synonymous with destination skiing, but this top-tier ski town at the junction of the Elk Mountains and the Sawatch Range also makes a prime destination to kick back and chill. The nearby Maroon Bells are often hailed as Colorado’s most photographed mountains, and T-Lazy-7 Ranch offers wintertime snowmobile tours to guests wanting a good glimpse of these iconic peaks. Alternatively, for another place to enjoy stunning views, the Aspen Art Museum features a regular rotation of thought-provoking art exhibitions and community events.
Should anyone want some quality time on Aspen’s acclaimed Rocky Mountain slopes, Aspen Snowmass has four mountain ski areas across 5,700 acres that provide up to a staggering 4,406 feet in vertical. And whether one needs to unwind after a busy day skiing or a long day exploring around town, The Little Nell offers quite the luxurious refuge with their own ski-in/ski-out full-service spa, posh après-ski experiences at The Board Room speakeasy and The Wine Bar, and an elegant array of rooms and suites.
Glenwood Springs
At the confluence of the Roaring Fork and Colorado Rivers sits Glenwood Springs, perhaps the ideal place to soak up Colorado’s most soothing vibes. Iron Mountain Hot Springs sports a prime location by the Colorado River and operates 31 hot spring-fed thermal pools designed for maximum relaxation. There is also Yampah Spa & Vapor Caves, one of only a handful of natural vapor cave networks in North America, and a great place to indulge in an illustrious menu of spa services. And for anyone hoping to see a hot spring in the wild, the South Canyon Hot Springs Trail west of town is where to find one.
Back in town, Glenwood Hot Springs Resort has a vast array of mineral spring-fed pools to explore and enjoy. Even better, guests can stay at The Lodge or Hotel 1888 and enjoy the easiest access to all the hot spring pools.
Mancos
Near the southwestern corner of Colorado lies Mancos, a ruggedly beautiful backcountry town that opens up to some of the Southwest’s most timeless treasures. A top highlight here is Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with some 600 cliff dwellings where Ancestral Puebloan communities lived for over 700 years (from the 7th century CE to the 13th century). Also nearby is Mancos State Park, a great place to spot local wildlife like Abert’s squirrels, mule deer, broad-tailed hummingbirds, and bald eagles in their natural habitat.
In town, there is plenty more to explore at the Mancos Creative District, a vibrant neighborhood with eight local art galleries, a wide array of locally-run boutiques and eateries, and multiple historic landmarks. And just outside town, visitors can kick back and take in the incredible scenery at Starry Nights Ranch, a bed-and-breakfast set atop a small mesa offering quiet guest rooms and a full ranch-style breakfast every morning.
Chill Out in Colorado’s Most Relaxing Small Towns
Colorado has plenty of small towns, and some of these small towns really go big in providing uniquely soothing amenities to chill out, relax, and reconnect with the simple pleasures of life. Both Steamboat Springs and Glenwood Springs overflow with natural hot springs and invite visitors to soak up their healing waters. Meanwhile, Manitou Springs keeps close to some of the American West’s most beloved natural landmarks, such as Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods. High up in the Rocky Mountains, Aspen has world-famous luxury resorts to make a ski trip oh-so extra special and lavish. And at Mancos, travelers can view truly remarkable ancient wonders. No matter how one hopes to relax, rest, and recharge, there is no shortage of options across the state.
