Colorado’s is dubbed the Centennial State. It was signed into statehood 100 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Our 38th state has a population of 5.3 million.
Colorado is home to the Earth’s largest flat top mountain in Grand Mesa. Denver, it’s capital city, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. It’s known for outdoor adventuring and wildlife.
But, we want to show you some places to visit in Colorado that you haven’t heard of. New locations that are good for the whole family. Here are our 6 best places to visit in Colorado for families.
Let’s jump right into our favorite places to see in Colorado.
1. Hanging Lake Waterfall
Like most of the stuff to do in Colorado, this is a gorgeous outdoor activity. Hanging Lake is a crystal clear body of water reached only on foot. The trailhead is a picturesque 1.2-mile walk that opens up into the beautiful scene.
The waterfall is the centerpiece of this glass lake with a travertine shoreline. For a more adventurous family, you can add 4 miles to your hike by parking in the nearby Glenwood Springs. The springs also offer bike rentals to help you on your journey.
If this is on your itinerary make sure to arrive early. Parking is limited and there is only one access. This is a popular location but well worth the wait.
2. Iron Mountain Hot Springs
While you’re spending time near Glenwood, check out the Iron Mountain Hot Springs. You’ll get incredible rocky mountain views and soak in extra iron from the thermal waters of the spring.
No matter what time of year you arrive, the hot springs are warm and ready for you. There are some things you’ll need to remember before taking a dip:
- Shower before entering the pools
- Come with a friend, soaking alone is not advised, or very much fun
- Build in some downtime after your dip. You’ll be tired for at least 30 minutes after leaving the water.
- Drinking alcohol is not advised
- Proper swimwear is required and you must remove all jewelry
- Swim diapers are required for the littlest guests
Make a day of relaxation soaking in the warmth of the natural hot springs.
3. A Noah’s Ark Colorado Adventure
Aerial parks are popular in Colorado. They offer ziplining and incredible views. One of the best is Brown Canyons Adventure Park. The best way to get there? Whitewater rafting with A Noah’s Ark Colorado Adventure.
Take a raft down the world-renowned Arkansas river over huge rapids on this fun tour. Their professional guides will bring you down 14,000 feet of gorgeous shoreline with dips and jerks to boot.
End the day with rock climbing or a soak in the hot springs. You can make this into a whole day package deal with everything included and horseback riding.
Click here for more exciting stuff to do during the summer months in Colorado.
4. Swetsville Zoo
What family outing list would be complete without a zoo day? What could be a better way to celebrate a family reunion? The Swetsville Zoo has a unique twist on your standard zoo.
All the animals at the Swetsville Zoo are made of metal. This is an amazing space full of metal sculptures and art installations. From giant spiders made from old Volkswagons to welded giraffes and dinosaurs, it’s a sight to see.
Bill Swets is the artist behind this zany attraction. He began metal work in 1985 to keep him busy during his fits of insomnia. He soon realized that this was his life’s passion.
Make sure you make it there soon. Due to some family troubles and wear and tear the unlikely beloved landmark may not be here much longer.
For every art-loving family, this is a don’t miss location.
5. Indiana Jones Home
When you were a kid did you imagine you could be a part of an Indiana Jones adventure? We all did. Consider a visit to his childhood home. You can even spend the night.
The home that young Henry Jones, Jr. runs to in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade is now a bed and breakfast. With a splendid adventure theme, the Indiana Jones Home bed and breakfast go all out to make your visit special.
The units available to sleep in all have Jones-esque names. They are The Holy Grail, The Crusaders, The Cortez, and The Coronado respectively.
6. Tiny Town and Railroad
This charming tiny model town is a must see for any family with young kids. Originally built in 1921 as a gift to the daughter of George Turner, this town has withstood a lot. A popular tourist attraction back then it featured a tiny grocery store. It even had a few tiny lakes.
Due to some bad luck, it almost became an abandoned tiny ghost town before it was claimed as a civic project in 1989. It’s been through flooding and winds. Lots of destruction had to be repaired. Now back to its former glory, each of its 100 buildings features a tiny scene inside.
This could be a great location for an outdoor birthday party for one of the kids. What a great way to celebrate someone small with a town of their own size.
Hope This Helps You Find The Best Places To Visit in Colorado for Your Family Event!
We hope we have given you some ideas for your family reunion in Colorado! These are our favorite places to visit in Colorado and we hope you have a wonderful time exploring them.
Colorado isn’t just skiing anymore. Take the kids and the rest of the fam and go explore everything the Centennial State has to offer. From art installation “zoos” to whitewater rafting and everything in between, your family is sure to love Colorado.
Remember that Wishes Planet is your one-stop shop to offer a solution for every wish. We have you covered from birthday party ideas, engagement plans, and even retirement parties. Check out some of our most popular posts here.
