12 Best Places to Stay in Colorado for an Epic Vacation
Colorado is one of those rare destinations that packs everything into one unforgettable adventure—towering mountains, turquoise lakes, pine forests, ski resorts, hot springs, and charming alpine towns that look straight out of a movie. Whether you want a romantic cabin escape, an adrenaline-filled ski trip, or a cozy family holiday, Colorado has the perfect stay waiting for you.
Ready to plan your dream getaway? Here are the 12 best places to stay in Colorado for an epic vacation you’ll talk about for years.
1. Aspen – Luxury, Scenery & World-Class Ski Slopes
Aspen is the Colorado classic—glamorous, scenic, and full of experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Visitors flock here for world-renowned skiing, luxury resorts, high-end dining, and that crisp mountain air that makes every moment feel magical.
But Aspen isn’t only for winter lovers. Summer brings hiking, mountain biking, fly-fishing, and gorgeous alpine lakes. Stay at a chic lodge, a mountainside resort, or even a boutique hotel with views of the iconic Maroon Bells.
Best for: Luxury travelers, skiers, honeymooners.
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2. Vail – Beautiful Villages & Endless Mountain Adventures
Welcome to Vail, where European charm meets Colorado wilderness. Its pedestrian-friendly villages—Vail Village and Lionshead—are lined with cafés, fireplaces, boutique shops, and alpine-style hotels that make every stay feel like a postcard.
Winter is magical here, but summer is just as incredible thanks to gondola rides, wildflower hikes, and festivals. Vail’s hotels are some of the best in the state, with ski-in/ski-out lodges, cozy inns, and romantic mountain retreats.
Best for: Families, couples, ski vacations.
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3. Breckenridge – A Fun, Lively Mountain Town
Breckenridge, or “Breck” to the locals, is the place where adventure meets small-town charm. The historic Main Street is packed with restaurants, breweries, and cute shops, while the mountain offers skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and scenic chairlift rides.
Breckenridge is famous for its wide range of stays—think cabins, condos, luxury chalets, and rustic lodges. Whether you want something budget-friendly or exclusive, Breck delivers.
Best for: Groups, families, nightlife-loving travelers.
4. Estes Park – Gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park
If you’re dreaming of wildlife, alpine lakes, and jaw-dropping mountain views, Estes Park is calling. This charming town sits right at the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, making it one of the best places to stay for hiking, scenic drives, photography, and nature escapes.
Choose from riverside lodges, cozy cabins, boutique hotels, or the historic—and famously haunted—Stanley Hotel. Every option feels like a front-row seat to Colorado’s wild beauty.
Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, adventure travelers.
5. Telluride – Quiet Luxury & Some of the Best Scenery in the U.S.
Telluride feels like a hidden treasure—surrounded by steep mountains, waterfalls, and greenery that make it almost too pretty to be real. It’s quiet, elegant, and perfect for visitors who want to escape the crowds.
Telluride Ski Resort is world-class, but the town’s real charm lies in its peacefulness and breathtaking views. Stay in a slopeside lodge, a luxury hotel in Mountain Village, or a historic inn right in town.
Best for: Peaceful vacations, luxury stays, romantic getaways.
6. Steamboat Springs – Relaxed Mountain Vibes & Famous Hot Springs
Steamboat Springs is your destination for a warm, welcoming stay filled with scenic beauty and cowboy-country charm. Here, you get top-notch skiing plus natural hot springs—a combination that makes every day feel like a spa retreat.
The town offers ranch-style accommodations, ski lodges, condos, and boutique hotels. Don’t miss Old Town Hot Springs or Strawberry Park Hot Springs for a dreamy soak.
Best for: Wellness travelers, families, outdoor adventurers.
7. Durango – Historic, Fun & Perfect for Adventure Travelers
Durango blends Old West charm with modern adventure. The historic downtown has gorgeous brick buildings, lively restaurants, and unique shops. Visitors love the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which takes you through some of the most scenic mountain routes in Colorado.
Hotels range from renovated Victorian inns to riverside lodges and modern resorts. With mountains, rivers, and canyons nearby, Durango is a go-to spot for outdoor lovers.
Best for: History buffs, families, adventure seekers.
8. Boulder – Trendy, Outdoorsy & Close to Denver
If you want a stay that mixes mountains with a vibrant urban vibe, Boulder is an amazing choice. It’s home to craft breweries, farm-to-table eateries, yoga studios, and the beautiful Flatirons—those sandstone peaks that make Boulder instantly recognizable.
Stay in stylish downtown hotels, modern boutique inns, or cozy mountain lodges just outside the city. It’s perfect for travelers who want nature and nightlife in one trip.
Best for: Solo travelers, young professionals, foodies.
9. Colorado Springs – Affordable, Scenic & Full of Iconic Attractions
Colorado Springs is full of natural wonders: Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, Seven Falls, and the Broadmoor area. It’s also one of the more affordable destinations in Colorado, making it ideal for families or travelers on a budget.
You’ll find everything from luxury resorts to budget hotels and mountain cabins. The Broadmoor, in particular, is one of the most famous hotels in America.
Best for: Families, budget travelers, nature lovers.
10. Glenwood Springs – Hot Springs, Canyons & Relaxing Resorts
Glenwood Springs is the ultimate relaxation destination. Known for its massive hot springs pools, this town offers scenic canyon views and endless outdoor adventure—from rafting to hiking the iconic Hanging Lake trail.
Accommodations include hot-springs resorts, boutique lodges, and charming inns. It’s a fantastic spot to unwind after days of exploring.
Best for: Spa lovers, couples, families.
11. Crested Butte – Cozy, Colorful & Perfect for Quiet Escapes
Crested Butte feels like a quaint, colorful fairytale town. With its Victorian storefronts, wildflower-filled meadows, and relaxed mountain vibes, it’s perfect for travelers seeking peace and authentic charm.
Stays here range from ski-in/ski-out lodges to cute cabins and boutique hotels. It’s amazing in winter but even more magical in summer when the wildflowers bloom.
Best for: Couples, photographers, quiet retreats.
12. Manitou Springs – Quirky, Artsy & Full of Natural Wonders
Manitou Springs is one of Colorado’s most charming small towns—quirky, artistic, and surrounded by beauty. Visitors love its cute cafes, healing mineral springs, and the nearby Incline hike (a bucket-list challenge!).
You can stay in historic inns, boutique hotels, B&Bs, or mountain lodges. It’s small, intimate, and bursting with personality—perfect for travelers who want something unique.
Best for: Artsy travelers, couples, spiritual retreats.
Final Thoughts – Your Perfect Colorado Stay Awaits
Colorado is overflowing with beautiful places to stay—luxury ski towns, historic cities, natural hot spring retreats, peaceful alpine villages, and bustling adventure hubs. Whether you want a romantic cabin, a ski resort with mountain views, or a lively town filled with shopping and dining, Colorado has an unforgettable stay for every type of traveler.No matter where you choose from these 12 epic destinations, one thing is guaranteed:
Your Colorado vacation will be nothing short of incredible.
