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Colorado boasts beautiful dense forests, rocky mountains, and cascading waterfalls, contrasting with big cities that still maintain their historical significance. However, beyond the big cities, Colorado鈥檚 small towns are friendly, welcoming, and a door to its well-known outdoors. Small towns offer a homey lifestyle but are not sedentary as there is much to see and do in and around the towns, like hiking, fishing, horse riding in summer, or skiing and snowboarding in winter. Cozying up and relaxing in a small town surrounded by nature is simplicity at its best.

Golden

Typically, everyone thinks of the Rockies and snow when Colorado is mentioned. However, Golden Colorado experiences milder winters with less snowfall compared to higher-elevation areas. Tucked in at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, a huge arch with the welcoming message 鈥淗owdy Folks! Welcome to Golden鈥� reminds visitors of its western heritage. It鈥檚 a pleasant town but alive with plenty to see and do. Hike the short trail up Lookout Mountain, pay homage to the legendary Buffalo Bill at his grave, and visit the museum. While there, enjoy the spectacular view and a meal at the Caf茅 in Buffalo Bill鈥檚 Pahaska Tepee. Golden has six museums, an amphitheater, great shopping, breweries, and wonderful hiking and biking trails and climbing opportunities. Don鈥檛 leave Golden without visiting Coors Brewery; try the samples while taking an audio tour. Golden has more to offer than a one-day visit, so stay a day or two at a historic accommodation like Pansy鈥檚 Parlor Bed and Breakfast, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Rocky Ford

Famous for its cantaloupe and watermelon farming, Rocky Ford is known as the Melon capital of the 麻豆AV. Even Lucille Ball had a thing for Rocky Ford鈥檚 melons that she had them delivered to her dressing room. Rocky Ford is a bustle of energy and activity in the second week of August. Watermelon Day and the Arkansas Vallet Fair, the oldest fair in the state, celebrate the town鈥檚 history. Besides celebrating melons, the fair engages in horse races, cattle shows, a carnival, and a rodeo. In November, the town hosts the Arkansas Valley Balloon Festival. A visit to the Rocky Ford Museum will educate visitors about Rocky Ford鈥檚 history from its inception in 1878. It鈥檚 an agreeable town with interesting shops, restaurants, and accommodations, such as Milliron Lodge, which is great for overnight or weekly stays, can accommodate families and friends, or for events.

Cedaredge

The 鈥淭own for all Seasons鈥� Cedaredge is not a winter or summer seasonal town like other Colorado cities. Cedaredge鈥檚 excellent outdoors provides superb fishing, hiking, biking or skiing, and snowmobiling. However, Cedaredge offers more than outdoor activities. It is settled in an apple-producing region, so farms have markets selling freshly picked apples and tours, like The Apple Shed and Fritchman Orchards, and the Applefest is held in the fall. Arts and culture is not lost on Cedaredge. For instance, the Grand Mesa Songwriter Festival is in June; The Grand Mesa Arts & Events Center showcases the Grand Mesa Short Film Festival and art exhibitions. Art and culture workshops and classes are held year-round. Make your stay in Cedaredge memorable and stay at one of many lodgings, like pet-friendly Kiser Creek Cabins.

Lafayette

Mary Miller founded Lafayette in 1888, naming it after her late husband. Initially, Lafayette was a coal mining town, but it has seen many growth spurts and phases to become the commercial town it is today. With over 100 vendors at the Lafayette Flea Market, gifts and collectibles are plenty, making this market one of Denver鈥檚 most popular. Being outdoors is always an adventure at Lafayette. From June to September, enjoy unforgettable fun at the Great Outdoors Waterpark. It has something for everyone, including an aqua arch, lap and vortex pools, 21-foot double flume slides, and a lazy river. The arts are highly regarded in Layfette with support from groups like Arts! Lafayette hosts events and workshops. A visit to Button Rock Bakery is a must, even if only to view and admire their artistic custom cakes. Lafayette is a pleasant town, so choose accommodation that fits its ambiance, like the pet-friendly Carriage House in the historic old town.

Palmer Lake

Palmer Lake is tranquil and slow-paced, blending in with nature. In the 1800s, Palmer Lake served as a water stop for steam locomotives on the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad. It underwent several industries until becoming the blissful hideaway for travelers today. The lake and surrounding areas provide many recreational activities, such as biking, hiking, horse riding, and fishing. Although a peaceful town, Plamer Lake has a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Winterfest in February, the Kids Fishing Derby in June, and the Palmer Lake Wine Festival in September. Downtown offers an eclectic selection of locally owned shops, restaurants, and the Lucretia Vaile Museum dedicated to Palmer Lake鈥檚 history. The Rabbit Hutch allows cozy comfort right on the waterfront for the whole family and furry friends.

Avon

Initially called Avondale, Avon, the 鈥淗eart of the Valley,鈥� is a tourist destination for skiing, biking, hiking, fishing, and water sports. Avon loves to entertain with the Salute to the USA in July, a celebration for the whole family, and the Colorado Rockies largest fireworks display. In June, Avon hosts the family-friendly Vail Lacrosse Tournament, which attracts many competitors and supporters. For kids, the Avon Egg Hunt is in April, and there are 12,000 eggs to hunt. Shopping in Avon is a breeze, and its many shops sell gifts, sports gear, wine, art, and pet accessories. Avon is a popular skiing town in the mountains, so it has plenty of accommodation options. For instance, guests never want to leave The Christie Lodge or the Mein Haus Bed & Breakfast, known for their personalized comfort.

Winter Park

Winter Park lives up to its name, snuggled in the Fraser Valley. For most of the year, it has fewer than 1000 residents, but come winter, it changes significantly with the influx of tourists vying for the 3000 acres of skiable terrain. However, it still maintains its authentic village-like feel. Besides the ski slopes, the town bustles with energy, hosting many events and festivals, such as the High Country Stampede Rodeo every July and bringing local artists together at the Fraser Mural Festival in August. There is much to entertain the whole family at Winter Park all year. While exploring the village鈥檚 shops and restaurants, have a hearty meal at locally owned Goody鈥檚 restaurant. Cooper Creek Square accommodates every shopping need with eleven shops, nine restaurants, and free covered parking. Since Winter Park is such a popular winter holiday destination, accommodation is occupied quickly. Book in at the pet-friendly Best Western Alpenglo Lodge and relax in the hot tub after a day of skiing.

Grand Lake

Grand Lake, also called Spirit Lake by the Ute Tribe, is the largest natural lake in Colorado. It鈥檚 the oldest natural lake in Colorado at the entrance to the Rockies. Sitting at the foot of the magnificent Rockies Grand Lake is not only about snow and skiing. During the warm months, the lake welcomes people on its waters, kayaking, paddling, boating, fishing, or soaking in the sun on the beach. The mountains invite horse riding, hiking, biking, running through its many trails, or driving the 48-mile Trail Ridge Road. At the Boardwalk, all shops are locally owned and operated, including jewelry, quilts, candles, and coffee shops. Enjoy live music and delicious American dishes with a touch of Latin America at the pet-friendly Rockies. Nothing beats cozy like a cabin snuck into the mountains, so rent a cabin from Columbine Cabins and wake up to the smell and beauty of nature every morning.

Embrace the Allure of Colorado's Small Towns

No matter the season, Colorado has an abundance of cozy towns to visit. Brave the warm sun or the icy snow and venture into the town to explore its local pride. Every town has much to offer that cannot be found in larger cities. The locals are friendly and welcoming and love sharing their heritage with visitors. These small towns thrive when hosting festivals and special events. They bring everyone together for fun and wonderful memories. Snuggle up in a small town in Colorado and relish its timeless energy.