A local recommends the best places to visit in Colorado, from quirky small towns and stunning national parks to hot springs and Rocky Mountain stops.

Colorado is noted for its landscape of mountains, forests, high plains, mesas, canyons, plateaus, rivers, and desert lands. It encompasses most of the Southern Rocky Mountains, as well as the northeastern portion of the Colorado Plateau and the western edge of the Great Plains.

From towering mountains and vibrant cities to rich cultural heritage, every part of Colorado offers a unique blend of experiences. Explore the cities below to enjoy the state's diverse activities, flavors, arts and local charm.

Discover the best places to visit in Colorado. U.S. News ranks the top 21 destinations, featuring scenic mountain towns, national parks and ski resorts.

Best Places to Visit in Colorado for 2026 - U.S. News Travel

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Colorado is the eighth-largest state in the country and hosts a wide variety of natural beauty between 3,317’ and 14,440’ in elevation, so it can be difficult to know where to start exploring. Although true beauty is always in the eye of the beholder, we’ve assembled this collection of a dozen beautiful places to visit in Colorado.

Colorado is a landlocked state located in the central United States. It borders Kansas in the east, Utah in the west, Arizona in the southwest, Nebraska and Wyoming in the North, and New Mexico and Oklahoma in the south.