The spectacular downtown of Telluride, Colorado. Image credit: Kristi Blokhin / Shutterstock.com.

7 Ideal Colorado Destinations for a 3-Day Weekend in 2025

Between breathtaking landscapes, magnificent mountainous villages, and picturesque national parks, Colorado is famous for its vibrant scenery. Combined with captivating cultures and a rich mining history, the “Centennial State” is the perfect place for a quick yet dreamy getaway. From the eye-catching vistas of Telluride, to the historic mines of Silverton, and the roaring waterfalls of Ouray, here are 7 ideal Colorado destinations for a 3-day weekend in 2025 you need to add to your travel list.

The Nicest Small Towns In ColoradoEach of these nice small towns delivers historic tours and insights for those curious to know more about the legends of the land.

Silverton

Downtown area of Silverton, Colorado.
Downtown area of Silverton, Colorado. Image credit Ian Dewar Photography via Shutterstock

Are you ready for a blast into the past? Head on a fascinating guided Old Hundred Gold Mine Tour, seeing real mining equipment dating back to the 1930s. The Mayflower Mill is a National Historic Landmark you have to visit. Learn more about mining as you see how miners could extract gold, silver, and base metals from the rock ores. Paired with plenty of opportunities for adventure activities, including the spectacular Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad taking you through the stunning San Juan Mountains, Silverton is undoubtedly one of the most ideal Colorado destinations for a 3-day weekend. Various accommodation options are available in town, such as The Historic Alma House. This locally owned and operated bed and breakfast was originally constructed in 1898 and later refurnished with modern-day amenities.

Downtown Silverton, Colorado.
Downtown Silverton, Colorado. Image credit: Kristi Blokhin / Shutterstock.com.

Estes Park

Historic Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado.
Historic Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado.

Dubbed the “Gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park,” Estes Park is one of the most ideal Colorado destinations for a 3-day weekend in 2025. Nature lovers can see wonderful vistas with an eye-catching journey above the treetops with the Estes Park Aerial Tramway. Uncover 360-degree views from 8,708 feet above! Next, head to Lake Estes Marina, where bike, boat, and pedal cart rentals are available. The Estes Park Resort is nearby, offering spacious suites and cozy cabins by the waterfront. National Park Gateway Stables also boasts horseback riding adventures for all ages and abilities, through Rocky Mountain National Park and the Roosevelt National Forest.

Downtown Estes Park, Colorado.
Downtown Estes Park, Colorado. Image credit Frank Schulenburg, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons.

Telluride

Main Street in Telluride, Colorado.
Main Street in Telluride, Colorado. Nick Fox / Shutterstock.com

Spend some time in the mesmerizing San Juan Mountains to explore Telluride. Uncover jaw-dropping vistas of the Colorado landscape with a scenic 12-minute Gondola ride up to Mountain Village. Enjoy a breathtaking stay overlooking the Victorian mining town in Mountain Lodge Telluride, where modern resort amenities are available. The town of Telluride was designated a National Historic Landmark District in 1961, due to its historic structures and significant mining past. Hall’s Hospital, which is now home to the Telluride Historical Museum, was originally constructed in 1896. Explore the rotating exhibits and thematic rooms as you dig deeper into the town’s past. Sit back and relax in Town Park, the perfect place for a scenic picnic surrounded by mountains.

Beautiful downtown area of Telluride, Colorado.
Beautiful downtown area of Telluride, Colorado. Image credit: Michael Vi / Shutterstock.com.

Aspen

The charming downtown area of Aspen, Colorado.
The charming downtown area of Aspen, Colorado. Image credit: Kristi Blokhin / Shutterstock.com.

Aside from being a ski lover’s paradise, Aspen is a wonderful place for international dining, cultural activities, and outdoor adventures. Venture down the powdery slopes of Aspen Mountain Ski Resort in the winter, or go sightseeing in the summer with a gorgeous gondola ride, lovely hiking trails, or exhilarating mountain biking opportunities. Various lodging options are available throughout the year here. Bask in the beauty of the John Denver Sanctuary, a stunning sanctuary situated near Rio Grande Park. Wander through the huge boulders engraved with the lyrics of American singer-songwriter John Denver. Explore the scenic route of Grottos Trail, passing by rushing waterfalls and striking ice caves within the beautiful White River National Forest.

Downtown Aspen, Colorado.
Downtown Aspen, Colorado. Editorial credit: Oscity / Shutterstock.com

Glenwood Springs

Aerial view of Glenwood Springs, Colorado.
Aerial view of Glenwood Springs, Colorado.

If your idea of the perfect escape involves relaxing in hot springs, then welcome to Glenwood Springs, one of the most ideal Colorado destinations for a 3-day weekend in 2025. Between the largest mineral hot springs pool in the world at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort (according to World Record Academy in April 2023), and the 16 geothermal mineral pools of Iron Mountain Hot Springs, you will have plenty of opportunities to stay somewhere you can rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul, as you soak in the water’s healing properties. If you are feeling extra adventurous, venture into the eye-catching Glenwood Canyon to visit Hanging Lake. The 1.2-mile trail will reveal incredible scenery with captivating waterfalls.

Historic downtown Glenwood Springs, Colorado.
Historic downtown Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Editorial credit: Kristi Blokhin / Shutterstock.com

Durango

Aerial view of Durango, Colorado.
Aerial view of Durango, Colorado.

Speaking of the Narrow Gauge Railroad, this incredible route also runs through Durango. Discover unique sites like the Pinkerton Hot Springs, seeing the captivating rocks that have grown colorful due to the minerals in the water. A hike through the Potato Lake Trailhead will unravel stunning scenery, with the beautiful mountains surrounding the lake. Enjoy a picturesque stay in Purgatory Resort, where various accommodation options are offered for your travel needs. Durango is also close to Mesa Verde National Park, a jaw-dropping World Heritage Site and International Dark Sky Park home to more than one thousand species, some of which can not be found anywhere else on the planet.

Ouray

Aerial view of the gorgeous town of Ouray, Colorado.
Aerial view of the gorgeous town of Ouray, Colorado.

Nicknamed the “Little Switzerland of America” due to its mesmerizing scenery that resembles the Swiss Alps, Ouray is a hidden wonder in the San Juan Mountains. Enjoy a refreshing stay in the Wiesbaden Hot Springs Spa & Lodgings, home to a 108-degree hot springs vapor cave, heated outdoor swimming pool, and private soaking pool with a scenic waterfall. The Box Cañon Falls Park is the perfect place for adventures. This birding hotspot is home to a significant colony of Black Swifts and features beautiful thundering waterfalls. Capture striking photos in the Yankee Boy Basin, accessible by a scenic drive from Ouray, which consists of waterfalls, a high-walled canyon, wildflowers, old town sites, and magnificent alpine scenery.

Main Street in the historic downtown of Ouray, Colorado.
Main Street in the historic downtown of Ouray, Colorado. Image credit: Michael Vi / Shutterstock.com.

Between the historical splendors of Telluride, the mesmerizing scenery of Aspen, and the powerful hot springs of Ouray, the Centennial State features incredible attractions for every type of traveler. Soak in the breathtaking scenery as you head on a quick yet fascinating escape that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Choose from these 7 ideal Colorado destinations for a 3-day weekend in 2025, and get ready to make unforgettable new memories in a captivating place.

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Victoria Gimelfarb August 11 2025 in Places

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