Rocky Mountain National Park
Stunning alpine scenery with wildlife and over 350 miles of trails
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About Colorado
Colorado, nicknamed the Centennial State, became the 38th US state in 1876 and has grown into one of America's most popular destinations. The state encompasses 58 mountains over 14,000 feet, world-famous ski resorts, five national parks, and a thriving food and craft beer scene centered in Denver. Colorado's combination of urban sophistication and unspoiled wilderness makes it unique among US states.
- Capital
- Denver
- Largest city
- Denver
- Population
- 5.8 million
- Languages
- English, Spanish
- Currency
- US Dollar
- Time zone
- Mountain Time (UTC-7/UTC-6)
Explore Colorado by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Colorado
The 3 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Mesa Verde National Park
Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings and archaeological sites
Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Iconic outdoor concert venue carved into natural red sandstone formations
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Colorado Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Colorado, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Colorado
- Days 1-2Colorado city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Colorado
- Days 1-3Colorado comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Colorado, departure
Where to stay in Colorado
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $80
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range $200
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury $500+
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Where to eat in Colorado
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Getting around Colorado
Transportation options in Colorado include local buses, taxis, and rental cars. Check local conditions before planning your travel.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $35 | $120 | $300 |
| Food (per day) | $20 | $50 | $120 |
| Transportation | $10 | $15 | $40 |
| Activities | $15 | $15 | $40 |
| Daily total | $80 | $200 | $500+ |
Best time to visit Colorado
Essential travel tips
- Rent a car to fully explore Colorado
- Acclimatize to altitude before hiking
- Book ski resorts 3-6 months ahead
- Visit national parks early morning to avoid crowds
- Pack layers - mountain weather changes rapidly
Safety information
Children are susceptible to altitude sickness - monitor for headache, nausea, and unusual fatigue above 8,000 feet
Children need SPF 50+ sunscreen reapplied every 2 hours at Colorado's elevation
Keep children within sight in wildlife areas - maintain 75-foot distance from all wildlife
Never let children approach moose - they are more dangerous than bears and charge without warning
Ski helmets are mandatory recommended for child skiers and snowboarders
Frequently asked questions
Is Colorado safe to visit in 2026?
Colorado is generally a safe destination with typical urban crime concerns in larger cities and specific outdoor safety risks related to altitude, weather, and wildlife. The most significant risks are altitude sickness, rapidly changing mountain weather, and traffic accidents on mountain roads. Prepare appropriately for outdoor activities and the high-altitude environment. Emergency services: police at 911, medical at 911.
What is the best time to visit Colorado?
The best time to visit Colorado is June-August, September-October. Colorado has a semi-arid continental climate with over 300 days of sunshine per year. The state's extraordinary elevation range (3,315 to 14,440 feet) creates dramatically different microclimates - De
Do I need a visa to visit Colorado?
Entry requirements follow United States rules. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Colorado?
The currency in Colorado is the US Dollar (USD). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Colorado?
The main language(s) spoken in Colorado: English, Spanish. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Colorado?
The top attractions in Colorado include Rocky Mountain National Park, Mesa Verde National Park, Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Garden of the Gods, and Great Sand Dunes National Park. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.
How do I get around Colorado?
Car is king in Colorado outside of Denver metro. Mountain roads require AWD or 4WD in winter. The state has excellent scenic drives but distances between destinations can be significant.