Welcome to 50 by 50 where I highlight one state each week and what to do when visiting. This week is Colorado, the 38th state to join the union on August 1, 1876. It is nicknamed The Centennial State for joining the union one century after it was founded.
Denver is the capital and most populated city. It is also the hub of the state. You can find it all here. Museums, dining, sports, and entertainment plus just a hop, skip, and a jump to national parks and great skiing. Colorado Springs is the base for nature lovers because it is located at the base of the Rocky Mountains, you can easily visit unique destinations alike Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, the Broadmoor Seven Falls, and more. And for unique adventures, visit Durango near the New Mexico boarder. Here you can ride the rails on steam-powered trains, fly fish or water tube in the Animas River Valley or enjoy one of the many festivals during the year like Snowdown
Looking to get out of the cities? Visit the Awe-inspiring Rocky Mountain National Park. The best time to go is June through September when most of the snow is melted and hiking trails are more accessible. Keep an eye out of a wide variety of wildlife while exploring mountains and alpine lakes. Or visit the former home of the Ancestral Pueblo people at the Mesa Verde National Park. It is America's best-preserved archaeological sites and has 600 cliff dwellings. This is not for those who have mobility limitations since some areas are only accessible by climbing, crawling, and walking. The scenes are memorable though and worth it. You cannot talk about Colorado though without talking about skiing. Breckenridge is a Colorado town at the base of the Rocky Mountains’ Tenmile Range. It's known for its ski resort, year-round alpine activities and Gold Rush history. The Victorian core of this former mining town is preserved as the Breckenridge National Historic District, running primarily along Main Street, with colorfully painted buildings from the 1880s and '90s housing shops, galleries and restaurants.
Are the kids looking for something to do? How about a train ride on the scenic Cumbres and Toltec which travels 64 miles through the Rocky mountains. Parents may recognize it from “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade”. Or spend a day at one of Denver’s top family attractions, the Museum of Nature and Science. Here you can go back in time and see ancient fossils or discover recent finds from outer space. No matter what you choose, you must take them to Little man Ice Cream. The Milk-jug shaped shop brings flavor to a whole new level with salted Oreo or raspberry-peach-hibiscus sorbet. They also have vegan options.
There are many other special culinary experience in Colorado. And of course you have to start with Coors, which has been brewing here for more than 200 years. They have free tours and tastings for you to learn about why it is the Golden Standard. Another Colorado only experience is the Diamond Belle Saloon at The Strater Hotel. Even though it was part of the original hotel built in the 1800s , the saloon was resorted in 1957 and has family friendly saloon girls and bartenders serve delicious food and craft cocktails at lunch and lunch and dinner while entertaining with live ragtime music. After a night of fun, how about breakfast? Snooze, An AM eatery, serves up 50’s style decor and vintage menu items with a twist like Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes or Goldilocks' Porridge that is just right. Wanting something more formal? Beckon is a pre-paid, ticketed dining experience at a chef’s counter that serves 8 course of ever-changing, seasonal menus. You can add a wine pairing to the evening as well.
And if you are a couple looking to get away, may I recommend the historic mountain resort Broadmoor near Colorado Springs. Dating all the way back to the Civil War, this iconic hotel offers the best in adventure and relaxation. But no visit would be complete without a reservation at the Penrose Room, the only Forbes five-star, AAA five-Diamond restaurant in Colorado. Serving European inspired dishes, you can choose from four to six course with or without wine pairing. Your night is complete with live entertainment and dancing.
Want to learn more about this great destination? Contact Me. Or you can let me know your favorite places to visit below. Also subscribe to my YouTube channel for ideas on vacations to other destinations.