Colorado

• Colorado Springs
• Denver

What can I expect from Colorado?

Colorado is a paradise for nature lovers, outdoor adventurers, and anyone who appreciates breathtaking scenery mixed with vibrant city life. Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect:

1. Epic Outdoor Adventures

• Rocky Mountains: Colorado is known for the Rockies, with countless opportunities for hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in places like Rocky Mountain National Park, Aspen, Breckenridge, and Vail.
• National Parks and Scenic Byways: In addition to Rocky Mountain NP, there’s Great Sand Dunes NP with its surreal sand dunes, and Mesa Verde NP with ancient cliff dwellings. Scenic byways, like the Million Dollar Highway, offer stunning drives.
• Ski Resorts: In winter, Colorado’s world-famous ski resorts attract visitors from around the globe. Towns like Aspen, Vail, and Breckenridge are not only great for skiing but also for luxury stays, great dining, and shopping.

2. Vibrant City Life and Culture

• Denver: Colorado’s capital, “The Mile High City,” has a lively downtown, trendy neighborhoods like RiNo (River North), art districts, breweries, and a huge music scene. Don’t miss Union Station, the Denver Art Museum, and Coors Field.
• Boulder: Known for its laid-back vibe, outdoor activities, and the famous Pearl Street Mall, Boulder is a picturesque university town at the foot of the Rockies.
• Colorado Springs: Home to the stunning Garden of the Gods park, Pikes Peak, and plenty of outdoor attractions.
• Fort Collins: A charming city with a great craft beer scene and a historic downtown.

3. Incredible Landscapes and Wildlife

• Colorado’s landscape is incredibly diverse, from towering mountain peaks to deserts, canyons, alpine lakes, and high plains. Wildlife sightings are common, with elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and even moose in certain areas.
• For photographers and nature enthusiasts, Colorado has some of the most beautiful landscapes in the US, with spectacular sunrises and sunsets against mountain backdrops.

4. Amazing Craft Breweries

• Colorado is one of the top craft beer destinations in the world, with breweries in almost every town. Denver hosts the annual Great American Beer Festival, and cities like Fort Collins and Boulder are also home to renowned breweries like New Belgium and Avery.

5. Four Distinct Seasons

• Winter: Snow blankets the mountains, making it ideal for skiing and winter sports. The cities tend to be milder but still get occasional snow.
• Spring: Known for “mud season” in the mountains as the snow melts, but wildflowers bloom and trails start to open up.
• Summer: Perfect for hiking, biking, camping, and festivals. Expect mild temperatures in the mountains, while cities can get hot.
• Fall: The aspen trees turn vibrant shades of yellow and gold, creating breathtaking views. This season is popular for leaf-peeping, especially along scenic mountain drives.

6. Rich History and Culture

• Colorado has a fascinating mix of Native American history, Old West heritage, and mining towns. You can visit historic sites like Mesa Verde, ghost towns like St. Elmo, and museums dedicated to cowboy and mining culture. Towns like Durango still offer scenic train rides, adding to the historic feel.

7. High Altitude and Sunshine

• At higher elevations, Colorado’s air is thinner, which can take some getting used to, especially if you’re planning active outings. Hydrate well, pace yourself, and use sunscreen—the sun is strong here due to the elevation.
• With over 300 days of sunshine a year, Colorado has some of the sunniest weather in the US, so you’re likely to enjoy clear skies!

Whether you’re into outdoor thrills, craft beer, or cultural exploration, Colorado has something special to offer in every season.

Typical Costs When Travelling to Colorado?

Traveling in Colorado can be tailored to suit a range of budgets, with options from budget-friendly adventures to luxurious mountain escapes. Here’s an overview of typical costs:

1. Accommodation

• Budget: $50–$100 per night for hostels, motels, or basic hotels, especially in larger cities like Denver and Colorado Springs.
• Mid-Range: $150–$300 per night for standard hotels or Airbnb rentals in popular areas like Boulder or Colorado Springs.
• Luxury: $350+ per night at high-end hotels or ski resorts in places like Aspen, Vail, and Telluride. Rates at ski resorts can soar in winter, especially during peak season (December–February).

Tip: Rates tend to be lower in the shoulder seasons (spring and fall), and you can find deals if you book well in advance or stay outside of popular tourist towns.

2. Food & Drink

• Budget: $10–$15 per meal at casual diners, cafes, and local spots.
• Mid-Range: $20–$50 per person at sit-down restaurants, including popular spots for Colorado craft beer and cuisine.
• Fine Dining: $50+ per person for upscale dining in cities or resort areas like Aspen and Boulder.

Colorado’s cities, especially Denver, Boulder, and Fort Collins, have a diverse food scene with everything from farm-to-table dining to international cuisine. You can also find plenty of budget-friendly options like food trucks and cafes.

3. Transportation

• Flights: Round-trip flights to Denver or other major airports like Colorado Springs can range from $200–$500, depending on the season and origin.
• Car Rental: $40–$80 per day, plus gas (around $3.50–$4 per gallon). Renting a car is recommended if you plan to explore the mountains, as public transportation is limited outside of cities.
• Public Transport: Within cities like Denver, day passes for public transportation are $6–$10. Ride-shares are also available, but they may be costly if you’re planning to travel beyond city limits.

Tip: If you’re planning to visit multiple parks, consider a weekly or annual National Park pass.

4. Attractions and Activities

• National Parks: Entrance fees are generally $10–$30 per car for a day pass. For frequent park-goers, the America the Beautiful Pass ($80 annually) offers access to all U.S. national parks.
• Skiing/Snowboarding: Expect $100–$250 per day for lift tickets at major resorts like Vail or Aspen. Smaller resorts or night skiing can be cheaper.
• Guided Tours and Activities: Costs vary but can range from $50–$150 for activities like guided hikes, white-water rafting, or zip-lining. Many popular hikes and scenic spots are free or have low-cost entry fees.

5. Entertainment and Nightlife

• Live Music and Events: Denver, Boulder, and some mountain towns have vibrant music scenes. Tickets for concerts and events typically range from $20–$80, with higher prices for big acts at venues like Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
• Breweries and Bars: Colorado is famous for craft beer, with pints typically costing $5–$8. Many breweries offer flights or free tours.

6. Average Daily Budget

• Budget Travel: $75–$125 per day, including a hostel or basic motel, casual meals, and low-cost activities.
• Mid-Range: $200–$300 per day, covering mid-range hotels, dining out, car rental, and a mix of paid activities.
• Luxury Travel: $400+ per day for higher-end accommodations, fine dining, and premium activities, especially if you’re skiing or visiting during peak tourist seasons.

Colorado offers flexibility with options to save money by taking advantage of free or low-cost activities like hiking, sightseeing, and picnicking in beautiful locations. Planning ahead and considering the season can help you find deals and make the most of your budget!

Colorado Money Saving Tips?

Colorado is an amazing destination, and there are plenty of ways to save on travel costs without sacrificing the experience. Here are some money-saving tips:

1. Visit During Shoulder Seasons

• Traveling in the spring (April–May) or fall (September–October) can save you a lot on flights, accommodation, and even some activities. The weather is still great for hiking and exploring, and you’ll miss the crowds of summer and winter.

2. Stay Outside Major Resorts and Cities

• Resorts like Aspen and Vail, as well as cities like Boulder and Denver, tend to have higher hotel rates. Look for nearby towns where accommodation is cheaper, and drive in or take public transportation when possible. For example, stay in Frisco instead of Breckenridge or Glenwood Springs instead of Aspen.
• Camping: If you’re visiting in summer or early fall, Colorado has fantastic campsites (some free) that make it easy to enjoy nature without the hotel cost.

3. Use Public Transportation in Cities

• Cities like Denver, Boulder, and Fort Collins have good public transportation options. Denver’s RTD (Regional Transportation District) offers affordable day passes and even has a rail line connecting Denver International Airport to downtown, saving on car rentals or ride-shares.

4. Take Advantage of Free Outdoor Activities

• Hiking, sightseeing, and even some hot springs are free or have minimal fees. Popular hiking areas like Garden of the Gods, Red Rocks Park, and Flatirons near Boulder don’t require any entry fees.
• Many towns have free or low-cost community events, like festivals, concerts, and outdoor movie nights.

5. Look for Multi-Resort Passes and Deals for Skiing

• If you’re planning to ski, multi-resort passes like the Epic Pass or Ikon Pass can offer significant savings if you’re hitting multiple resorts.
• Smaller ski resorts like Eldora, Loveland, or Arapahoe Basin often have more affordable lift tickets compared to larger resorts like Vail or Aspen. Visiting during the week or late in the season can also yield cheaper prices.

6. Eat Smart and Local

• Colorado has a strong farm-to-table and casual dining scene. Farmers’ markets are common, especially in summer, and are a great place to grab fresh, affordable food for picnics.
• Breweries and cafes often have happy hour specials or discounted flights of beer. You can try local brews and save on meals by timing your visit for happy hours, typically between 4 and 6 PM.

7. Use an Annual National Parks Pass

• If you plan to visit multiple parks (Rocky Mountain National Park, Great Sand Dunes, Mesa Verde), the America the Beautiful Pass for $80 gives you access to all national parks for a year. The pass quickly pays for itself if you visit three or more parks.

8. Bring Your Own Gear for Outdoor Activities

• If you have your own ski, camping, or hiking gear, bring it along to save on rental fees. Colorado’s outdoor shops often offer rental equipment, but costs add up if you’re renting for multiple days.
• For outdoor gear you don’t own, consider checking out second-hand or rental shops in towns instead of at resorts, where rentals tend to be pricier.

9. Consider a Free or Low-Cost Tour

• Many Colorado towns offer free walking tours, and some breweries offer complimentary or low-cost tours (usually with samples included!). You can also find affordable guided hikes or historical tours, which can be a great way to experience the area on a budget.

10. Shop for Groceries and Have Picnics

• Grocery stores like Safeway, King Soopers, and Natural Grocers are common, and picking up food supplies allows you to enjoy scenic picnics. Many mountain towns and parks have beautiful picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal with a view for free.

With some smart planning, you can experience Colorado’s highlights affordably, leaving more room in the budget for splurging on the things you love!