Colorado is a state full of natural beauty, from the snow-capped Rocky Mountains to the vast plains of the Eastern Plains. There’s something for everyone to enjoy in Colorado, no matter what your interests are. If you’re looking for outdoor adrenaline, you can go hiking, biking, rafting, or rock climbing. If you’d rather take things easy, you can visit one of the state’s many museums, art galleries, or historical sites. And of course, no trip to Colorado would be complete without sampling the local cuisine, which includes everything from juicy steaks to fresh trout to decadent desserts.
May is a great time to visit Colorado. The weather is warm and sunny, but not too hot, and the wildflowers are in bloom. There are also a number of special events and festivals happening in May, including the Denver Arts Festival, the Boulder International Film Festival, and the Telluride Bluegrass Festival. These events and festivals provide a great way to experience the local culture and meet new people.
With so much to see and do, it can be hard to know where to start. Here are 11 of the top things to do in Colorado on May 2024:
1. Visit Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Colorado, and for good reason. The park is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the state, including towering mountains, pristine lakes, and lush forests. There are also a number of hiking trails, campgrounds, and picnic areas in the park, making it a great place to spend a day or two.
2. Go hiking in the Indian Peaks Wilderness
The Indian Peaks Wilderness is a rugged and beautiful wilderness area located just west of Boulder. The wilderness is home to a number of high peaks, including Mount Audubon, Mount Evans, and Mount Bierstadt. There are also a number of hiking trails in the wilderness, ranging from easy to difficult. If you’re looking for a challenging hike with stunning views, the Indian Peaks Wilderness is a great option.
3. Visit the Denver Art Museum
The Denver Art Museum is one of the largest and most comprehensive art museums in the West. The museum’s collection includes over 70,000 works of art from around the world, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, and decorative arts. The museum also has a number of special exhibitions throughout the year.
4. Take a ride on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway
The Pikes Peak Cog Railway is a narrow-gauge cog railway that takes passengers to the summit of Pikes Peak, one of the most famous mountains in Colorado. The railway is a National Historic Landmark, and the trip to the summit is an unforgettable experience. As you ascend the mountain, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
5. Visit the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center
The Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center is a museum and art center located in Colorado Springs. The center’s collection includes over 30,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, and prints. The center also has a number of special exhibitions throughout the year. The fine arts center is a great place to learn about the history of art and to see some of the most famous works of art in the world.
6. Visit the Garden of the Gods
The Garden of the Gods is a public park located in Colorado Springs. The park is home to a number of unique rock formations, including the Kissing Camels, the Three Graces, and the Balanced Rock. The park is a great place to hike, bike, or simply enjoy the scenery.
7. Go rafting on the Colorado River
The Colorado River is one of the most popular rafting rivers in the world. The river flows through a number of canyons and gorges, providing rafters with stunning views and plenty of rapids. There are a number of different rafting companies that offer trips on the Colorado River, so you can choose a trip that fits your experience level and budget.
8. Visit the Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in southwestern Colorado. The park is home to a number of Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings, which were built by the Pueblo people over 700 years ago. The cliff dwellings are a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the Pueblo people, and they offer a fascinating glimpse into their lives. Mesa Verde National Park is a great place to learn about the history of the Pueblo people and to see some of the most well-preserved cliff dwellings in the world.
9. Visit the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is located in western Colorado. The park is home to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison, which is one of the deepest and narrowest canyons in the world. The canyon is a popular destination for hikers, rafters, and kayakers. Visitors to the park can also enjoy the area’s scenic drives and overlooks.
10. Visit the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is located in southern Colorado. The park is home to the Great Sand Dunes, which are some of the tallest sand dunes in North America. The dunes are a popular destination for hikers, sandboarders, and ATV riders. Visitors to the park can also enjoy the area’s scenic drives and overlooks.
11. Visit the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge is located just northeast of Denver. The refuge is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, deer, and eagles. The refuge is a great place to hike, bike, or simply enjoy the scenery.
Culture
Colorado is a state with a rich and diverse culture. The state’s Native American heritage is evident in the many petroglyphs and cliff dwellings that can be found throughout the state. Colorado is also home to a number of Hispanic and Mexican communities, which have brought their own unique traditions and customs to the state. In addition, Colorado is a popular destination for immigrants from all over the world, which has resulted in a vibrant and cosmopolitan culture.
Best Months to Visit
The best time to visit Colorado is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, Colorado is a beautiful state to visit year-round. In the spring, the wildflowers are in bloom, and the mountains are covered in snow. In the fall, the leaves change color, and the temperatures are mild. In the winter, Colorado is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders.
Nearby Transportation
Denver International Airport (DEN) is the main gateway to Colorado. The airport is located about 25 miles northeast of downtown Denver. There are a number of different ways to get from the airport to downtown Denver, including taxis, buses, and light rail. Once you’re in Denver, you can use the city’s public transportation system to get around. There are also a number of rental car companies located at the airport.
Local Food
Colorado is home to a number of delicious local dishes. Some of the most popular dishes include:
- Rocky Mountain oysters
- Green chili
- Denver omelet
- Elk burgers
- Trout
Best Hotels
Colorado is home to a number of world-class hotels. Some of the best hotels in the state include:
- The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs
- The Ritz-Carlton, Denver
- The St. Regis Aspen Resort
- The Little Nell in Aspen
- The Hotel Jerome in Aspen
Conclusion
Colorado is a state with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing vacation, you’re sure to find it in Colorado. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today.
