Ridgway

Explore Ridgway, Colorado

Snuggled into the Uncompahgre Valley in western Colorado, the postcard-perfect little town of Ridgway is home to around 1,000 residents and is one of the sweetest getaways in the entire state.

The scenery begs for superlatives, with the San Juan mountain range to the south jutting into the bluest of skies and the Cimarron peaks commanding a Standing O. Hill and vale, are covered with pine and aspen, and cottonwoods dot the stream banks in the lower regions. And it’s all illuminated by an average of 300 sunshiny days each year.

Ridgway Culture

Ridgway is downright beautiful. It’s more than what meets the eye, with a community that supports ranchers, farmers, and other land stewards and artists of all stripes. Studios and galleries provide outlets for painters, sculptors, artisans, potters, woodworkers, jewelry makers, photographers, and weavers—if it’s beautiful, you’ll find it in here.

There’s also an energetic musical force in town, with a popular concert series. Sherbino Theater also offers music, film showings, and other cultural fare. Shopping is just as varied, with one-of-a-kind treasures and souvenirs ready to go home with you.

Historical Significance

For history buffs, Ridgway has a colorful past. It was founded in the last decade of the 19th century as headquarters for the Rio Grand Southern Narrow Gauge Railroad, which services the area’s gold and silver mines and farmers and ranchers. A museum holds relics of those bygone glory days. The area’s incredibly idyllic setting made it the perfect backdrop for 1969’s True Grit, for which John Wayne won the Best Actor Academy Award for his portrayal of Rooster Cogburn.

Ridgway Food & Lodging

While you’re soaking up the atmosphere, consider sampling some of Ridgway’s food and drink. Numerous renowned restaurants, as well as a local brewery and distillery, are located in the town.

Accommodations to fit every budget and need are available in Ridgway and nearby Ouray, and the area is a great place to pitch a tent and get to know Mother Nature on a first-name basis.

Recreation

The four seasons present endless possibilities for outdoor recreation.

A favorite recreation area is Ridgway State Park, which has a 1,000-acre reservoir just a couple of miles from town. The Uncompahgre River offers great fishing, and the reservoir park is also ideal for camping, boating, waterskiing, windsurfing, picnicking, hiking, and biking.
If a good soaking sounds good, Orvis Hot Springs offers several pools outside and one indoors.
Mountain biking, gravel riding, and road biking are popular in and around Ridgway. There are plenty of trails, backroads, and challenging pavement to satisfy all cycling enthusiasts. Check out the San Juan Hut Systems, which has fully stocked huts strategically located on dirt roads and single-track trails from high alpine areas to Canyon Country; learn more.
You can go off-road via Jeep, Buggy, or RAZR, or you can pick the type of off-road vehicle.
For horse lovers, saddle up and sign up for a horseback riding adventure.
Mountaineering guided services are offered via Skyward Mountaineering.

There’s also rodeo, golf, motorcycle and off-road tours, rafting, kayaking, hunting, birding, skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, scenic drives… Oh, the things you’ll do in Ridgway!

Blue Spruce Gallary

Bell Tower Cultural Center

About Bell Tower Cultural Center

The former First Baptist Church (Bell Tower), built in 1898, was given to the council by members of the church to be used as a center of learning for the community in 2013 as a gift. The former sanctuary has retained its 1898 flavor with outstanding stained glass windows, oak pews, and a small stage area.

Happening at Bell Tower Culture Center

Art, events, lectures, and artistic performances of all kinds have and will continue to keep the Performance Hall (formerly the sanctuary) alive. Areas for meetings, offices, private art studios, and classroom space have returned the Annex to a usable venue. Classroom space and private artisan studios take up the space on the second floor. The third floor is currently used as a clay area known as the Clay Addicts Attic, with classes or studio rental time available.

Call 719-784-2038 the Bell Tower Culture Center to learn more.

Family Friendly

Family Friendly Colorado Vacations

Colorado is full of family friendly activities. We are here to help you find all sorts of fun for kids, grown-ups, and everyone in between. No matter where you travel within Colorado, there are always plenty of things for kids to do. The wide selection of activities ranges from natural attractions and wildlife to amusement parks and museums. Use the FREE itinerary planner and start adding to your family vacation list today.

A Quick List of Family Friendly Activities

Family Nature Recommendations

If nature is a priority on your family vacation, Colorado’s natural beauty will impress and keep the kids entertained. Explore the Historic Fairy Caves in Glenwood Springs, hike Rocky Mountain National Park and admire the wildlife in Estes Park, or enjoy the Children’s Playland at the beautiful Royal Gorge Bridge & Park in Cañon City.

Educational Experiences for the Whole Family

Looking to include a little education on your trip? The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery offers many programs for kids of all ages, including musical performances and hands-on science labs. You can also visit Keystone Science School and learn about Colorado waterways.

Colorado Summer Vacation Planning

Colorado Summer Vacation Planning, the best season

If you're planning a Colorado summer vacation, you have come to the right place. A Colorado summer vacation is the best time of year to visit this glorious state. The Mountain West is the most geographically diverse region in the United States, and with that comes natural wonders to be explored. A Colorado summer road trip starts with finding destinations that meet your expectations, planning scenic routes through the mountains, and locating all those fun family activities along the way. Use our FREE itinerary tool to start planning and organizing your summer vacation.

Colorado National and State Parks

Colorado has 42 state parks, 4 National Parks, 11 national forests, and 42 wilderness areas, each showcasing different parts of our great state, from the eastern plains to the highest peaks. That adds up to 43.3% of Colorado classified as public land, and what amazing land it is! These parks and forests are popular attractions during the Colorado summer, and fortunately, they are spread out across the state. You can easily visit one or more during your scenic road trip. State Parks offer various amenities for camping and feature attractions such as a gorgeous mountain lake, hiking trails, and much more. Learn more about National and State Parks.

Colorado Summer Culture, Festivals, Local Events

As you travel through the state, you will encounter many cultural events and festivals (events calendar).

Check the concert calendar and find an outdoor concert or nearby live music. Red Rocks Amphitheater is always a fantastic place to watch a show.
Consider a brewery tour such as the Coors Factory Brewery Tour in Golden or the Breckenridge Brewery Tour. Winery tours are also popular.
Catch a game at the Coors Field, home of the Rockies, in Denver.
Many mountain communities have regular art walks or exhibits going on.
The Colorado Pro Rodeo Tour is a popular cultural event with scheduled rodeos throughout the state.
Stop at a nearby Farmers Market. Beyond all those mountains lie very fertile valleys. Colorado produces many fresh vegetables, fruits, meats, and artisan crafts. Palisade peaches are a favorite.
If you enjoy participating in local athletic events, search your favorite mountain community for whatever type of race or event you would like to participate in. You will surely find something (mountain biking, running, golf tournaments…, etc.).

Family Fun Colorado Vacation Planning - things to do with kids

If family fun is what you’re after, Colorado is the place to be. You might say that family entertainment is the state’s specialty. Mountain resort towns (ski resorts) are your-round these days, featuring gondola and chairlift access mountain biking and hiking trails. You will also find mountainside adventure parks in these same locations, adding to the fun with various kids activities such as bungee trampolines, put-put golf, adventure park-type challenge courses, mountain slides, and more. Nearby mountain communities have even more fun things to do with kids such as guided tours, state parks, and dedicated adventure parks.

Whitewater Rafting, Lakes, Water Parks, Adventure Parks and more

Getting wet during the Colorado summer season is widespread and easily attainable. With abundant mountain lakes, whitewater rivers, and water parks across the state, you can easily add this to your vacation planing. The popularity of adventure parks has created variations that include adventure packages, which combine water fun with other types of adventure.

Whitewater rafting is a super fun family adventure. You can easily find rafting companies that provide trips to match the group size and ability level.
Try ziplining across Colorado’s stunning landscape. Many zipline companies now offer adventure packages.
Water parks are another great summer way to cool down. Check out Elitch Gardens and Water World, both in Denver, which are super fun.
Stop at the Frisco Adventure Park, located in Frisco next to Lake Dillon. It is a family-friendly center with lots of family activities.
Visit one of Colorado’s many lakes. The larger lakes have marinas with boat rentals, allowing activities like water skiing and jet skiing, sailing, SUPs, fishing, and more.
Take a guided horseback ride. Horseback riding is found near mountain resorts or popular destinations like Estes Park.
Schedule a group off-road tour, a great way to build memories and see the fantastic sights.
Visit a state park. Parks are found throughout the state. These unique parks feature family entertainment such as beaches, picnic sites, boat rentals, fishing, hiking & biking trails, and more.

Dinosaurs and Historical Vacation Planning Stops

Colorado Summer Dinosaur Sites

Colorado is rich in history and has many interesting historical sites worth visiting along your family's summer road trip. If you’re planning to visit the Royal Gorge Region, add a stop at one of these exciting dinosaur fossil preserves or museums:

The Royal Gorge Regional History Museum, see fossils, dinosaur bones, and a complete Stegosaurus replica skeleton.
Garden Park Fossil Area - a 3,600-acre area rich with fossils.
Indian Springs Trace Fossil Site - see tracks left by prehistoric creatures.
Include Skyline Drive as part of your summer road trip - view fossils and more tracks.

Dinosaur National Monument in NW Colorado is a unique geographical place with dinosaur remains from 100 million years ago. This area is rich in fossils and early pioneer history.

Historical Colorado Road Trip

Many of Colorado’s mountain towns developed during the Gold Rush era, coinciding with the cattle companies' open-range days. These two significant Western development events are seen in the Colorado we know today. Check out the local mountain town museums to learn more about how early settlers lived and made a living.

Denver Museums

Dever has 51 unique museums, ranging from children-focused to more traditional centers, such as the Museum of Nature & Science, Black American West Museum, and the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver.

Sightseeing a Perfect Family and Friends Activity

When you arrive in Colorado, sightseeing begins, as the mountain landscapes will instantly captivate you. However, getting deep into roads less traveled or passing through dramatic landscapes can be done in various ways. Sightseeing tours are a wonderful way to share memories with family and friends. If getting an eye full is what you’re after, here are some recommended sightseeing options:

Take a scenic train ride. Not only will you pass through dramatic mountain landscapes, but you will also learn about Colorado’s mining era. These trains are perfect activities for kids as they often feature hands-on mine exploration, storytelling, and special holiday trains.
Sign up for an off-road tour. Guided jeep tours will travel on original mining roads (maintained) through rugged terrain and pass by dramatic vistas—a fun family and friends activity.
While in one of Colorado’s resort towns, you can buy a ticket for a gondola ride or a chairlift ride and get a bird's-eye view of the forest and surrounding landscapes. You can also hike or bike at the top and stop in for lunch.
Include a scenic byway in your Colorado summer road trip. Stop at historical sites, check out ghost towns, and camp along the way.

Summer Vacation Rest and Relaxation

A Colorado summer vacation can be a chance to rest and rejuvenate your soul. Health and wellness retreats and experiences are growing in popularity. Visiting one or several of Colorado’s natural hot springs is a favorite place to recharge. The soothing, hot mineral waters will revitalize your being. Many of these natural springs have been developed into full-service spas that combine experiences such as massage, meditation, and spa services and provide on-site lodging.

Popular Colorado Summer Vacation Destinations

Some of Colorado’s favorite places to explore and enjoy your summer vacation are places that have big attractions such as:

Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) is a favorite national park with various camping options, extensive hiking trails, and educational experiences.
Estes Park is a beautiful mountain town beside RMNP, the gateway to Trail Ridge Road, Grand Lake, and Lake Granby.
The Royal Gorge Region has attractions like the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, Royal Gorge whitewater rafting, and the Royal Gorge Scenic Train.
Mesa Verda National Park in southwest Colorado offers a spectacular look into the Ancestral Pueblo people. Visitors can call, walk, drive, or take a tour through the park.

A Colorado Summer Vacation Planning and more

There are many more amazing places and things to do on your Colorado Summer Vacation, and hopefully, you will make discoveries along your journey. Planning your summer vacation starts with finding destinations and activities that interest you and crafting your summer road trip route to facilitate these visits. If finding kids activities is a primary focus please check out this article specifically about kids activities in Colorado. Please use the free itinerary tool as you will find it indispensable for organizing your trip.

Canon City

Travel to Canon City, Colorado

Tucked into the folds and bluffs of the Arkansas Valley in south central Colorado, Canon City boasts the nickname of “The Climate Capital of Colorado” due to the mild climate. The relaxed pace of the region’s quaint small towns, spectacular scenery, year-round outdoor activities, The Royal Gorge Park & Bridge, and The Arkansas River, which flows through the region, make this the perfect vacation destination. Request a FREE Vacation Guide.

Favorite Things to Do in the Royal Gorge Region

Royal Gorge Bridge and Park – a must-see and do experience. Cross America’s highest suspension bridge and participate in the other features offered at the park.
Whitewater rafting through the Royal Gorge Canyon – a very popular way to see and experience all the wonders of the Royal Gorge Canyon and the Arkansas River.
Jeep Tours – The Royal Gorge Region is an amazing place to travel through. Featuring a high alpine desert landscape and a plethora of off-road routes.
Royal Gorge Scenic Train – climb onboard the original transcontinental passenger train from the early 1900s.
The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey – voted “Best Front Range Tasting Room” by Colorado Vine. The wine-tasting room is open daily.
Mountain Biking & Hiking – are understated activities but many exceptional miles of trails await.

About Canon City and Regional Attractions

Family fun starts with a memorable ride on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, one of the most scenic train rides in the world. The historic tracks follow the Arkansas River through the Royal Gorge Canyon, with views of the bridge from below. The whole family will enjoy exploring the unique rock formations and historic dinosaur sites. Leisure seekers will delight in the one-of-a-kind galleries, renowned antiquing, wine tasting, golfing, and fishing.

Canon City is home to The Royal Gorge, which has a width of 50 feet at the base of the gorge and a few hundred feet at its top, with a depth of 1,200 feet; the 10-mile-long canyon is a stunning natural wonder. 1929, one of the world’s highest suspension bridges was built over the Grand Gorge. The Royal Gorge Bridge has a quarter-mile long span and hangs 1,053 feet above the gorge. The bridge is one of Colorado’s most popular attractions.

Snowmass Village

What Makes Snowmass Village Special

Snowmass Village is renowned for its welcoming, family-friendly, yet adventurous atmosphere. A village surrounded by a world-class ski resort that welcomes like-minded mountain adventurers is here to make mountain ambitions come true. Year-round opportunities are available for the young and old; find groups, guides, lessons, and more while visiting Snowmass Village

Snowmass Village Attractions

Snowmass Village festivals, activities, and on-mountain fun are the hallmarks of this scenic destination resort. Snowmass Village and the town of Aspen has an on-going roster of races, concerts, parties, cultural events, and more. Check the events calendar and make your visit even more full of reasons to have a great time.

Snowmass Village Winter :: Snowmass Village Summer

Winter at Snowmass

Wintertime at the Village

Winter at Snowmass will keep the whole family happy with epic ski terrain parks, pipes, wide-open groomers, bumps, and big mountain skiing. Enjoy 95% ski-in/ski-out lodging convenience to more than 3,332 ski-able acres, accompanied by several stylish and trendy options for dining, entertainment, and shopping. Take a closer look; what you don’t know may surprise you. Snowmass offers a variety of fun for your entire family!

Winter Activities at Snowmass Village

In addition to the huge ski/snowboarding resort and terrain parks. Here are some popular winter activities:

Cross-country skiing – North America’s largest, FREE groomed Nordic trail system, connecting Aspen and Snowmass via the Owl Creek Trail, includes varied, entertaining ski trails. More about Nordic Resorts.
Snowshoeing – follow a marked trail on Snowmass Mountain or sign up for a guided tour with a local naturalist.
The Breathtaker Alpine Coaster – is a fun, safe, year-round adventure activity for the whole gang. Wind your way down on the coaster track through a scenic alpine forest.
Snow Tubing – a multi-lane tubing facility with lift access and lights for evening fun.
Ullr Nights – on select nights during peak season, join in on the wonderland party celebrating Ullr, the Norse God of Snow.
Snowcat Dinner Rides – jump on board a modern snowcat with your party and have a fantastic dinner in a mountaintop cabin.
Naturalist Snowshoe Tours – join a guided snowshoe tour with a knowledgeable naturalist.
Nastar – check out your alpine skiing skills on a designed course by Nastar.
Aspen Powder Tours – explore the backcountry with an experienced guide and find some of the best powder stashes.
Gondola Sightseeing Tickets – explore the mountains via a scenic gondola or chairlift ride.

Summertime – The Lost Forest

Summer at Aspen Snowmass

Visiting Aspen Snowmass in the summer invites you to explore even more ways to enjoy mountain activities and lifestyles.

Hiking – of course, there’s plenty of hiking.
Explore the Lost Forest – a mountain version of an adventure park that includes an extensive zipline canopy tour, a ropes challenge course, the Alpine Coaster, a climbing wall, hiking trails, a trout pond, and a disc golf course.
Snowmass Bike Park – for mountain bike enthusiasts, this park facilitates beginners through advanced rides on designed downhill trails. Trails cover 2,897 vertical feet.
Sightseeing Gondola & Chairlift Rides – quickly climb the mountain, take in views, and access free outdoor activities, miles of trails, and delicious on-mountain dining.
Camp Aspen Snowmass – a summer camp for ages 5 – 15. Fostering a love for the outdoors and crafts.
Paintball – it can get crazy, but have fun with an outdoor paintball campaign. Participants each have 300 washable and biodegradable paintballs to take out the opposition with.
Climbing Wall – check out the Rugged Ascent Climbing Wall, which has 14 lanes with various routes and difficulties.
Mountain-top Yoga – rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit with an all-level mountain-top yoga class.
Visit the Maroon Bells – this is a popular must-see. Learn more about how to visit this pristine area.

Summer in Summit County

Summer in Summit County, Colorado

Welcome to Summer in Summit County and one of ‘Colorado’s Favorite Playgrounds!’ Blessed with a central location in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Summit County encompasses the inviting towns of Keystone, Dillon, Frisco, Silverthorne, Copper Mountain, Heeney, and Breckenridge.

Summit County Summertime

Our historic towns have much to offer for all ages during the summer months. Celebrate the history of these National Historic Districts and stroll down our Main Streets while enjoying the one-of-a-kind architecture, unique shopping, and dining options.

Summer in Summit County Standouts

Dillon Reservoir and Marina – A 3,300-acre lake with 25 miles of shoreline.
Rafting
Fishing
Alpenglow Adventure Tours – Transportation and discounts on scenic train tours.
Peninsula Recreation Area – access to camping, hiking, biking, and recreation center.
Music festivals and other cultural events. Check the calendar.
Free things to do in Summit County

Find many unique lodging opportunities for romantic getaways, family vacations, and weekend adventures with friends. Summit County has many options to suit any family, group, couple, or individual.

Fremont Center for the Arts

“Fremont Center for the Arts fosters and enriches the cultural and economic health for the Greater Fremont County Region through partnerships, presentations, education, and preservation of the Arts for present and future generations”

Fremont Center for the Arts hosts monthly rotating fine art exhibits, arts education, a member artist gift shop, and special events year round. The FCA building is a beautiful former U.S. Post Office in the Art Deco style of the 1930s, currently listed on the Register of Historic Places. Inside the front lobby, several regional artists have completed murals depicting one of several movies filmed in the Fremont area from the 1930s through the 1970s. Visitors may also tour the lovely FCA sculpture garden next to the FCA building on Macon Plaza. From November 2016 through April 2017, FCA offers free public admission to exhibits.

In 2017, FCA will launch its 1st Annual, Southern Colorado Color – Art, Culture & Local History Exhibit. This Exhibit runs from June 2 – August 19, 2017 – Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 am to 4 pm. The 2017 theme is “Beasts & Byways,” featuring artist Jim Redhawk in the East Gallery and several prominent Southern Colorado Artists exhibiting works for display and sale that reflect the “Beasts & Byways” theme. Additionally, the exhibit will feature cultural and historic displays relating to the annual theme and an interactive Mining Exhibit in the lower level Studio Gallery with hands-on activities for kids of all ages and kids at heart. The Summer Exhibit will charge Free Admission to children under 12 with a paid adult, $3 to FCA Members, $5 to Colorado Residents, AAA, AARP, Military & College Students with ID (as well as groups of 10 or more), and $7 to the general public.

During the Southern Colorado Color Summer Exhibit, FCA will host 2 craft fairs featuring Southern Colorado and Regional Artisans:

June 16-17 will promote Native American crafts and entertainment alongside additional regional artisans
July 21-22 will promote Western themed crafts and entertainment alongside additional regional artisans
Both fairs take place on Friday-Saturday weekends from 9 am to 5 pm at Macon Plaza in downtown Canon City

View our images section for a complete calendar of 2017 Exhibits.

Park Meadows Mall

About Park Meadows Mall

Park Meadows Mall is Colorado’s biggest shopping mall, located just 5 miles from Denver and 40 minutes from Colorado Springs. It features 185 stores and restaurants, from the largest selection of athletic apparel stores to the best in branded fashion and dining. Enjoy the unique Grand Mountain Lodge architecture and artwork by Colorado artists.

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