Did you know that Colorado has some of the highest rent and mortgage costs in the country? We can practically see all of you Colorado residents nodding in agreement at your screens. The truth is, Colorado can get pretty pricey but we’re here to tell you that there are also some absolutely incredible free things to do around this glorious place. So without further ado, here are 14 free things to do in Colorado. By the end of this list, you might agree that the free things do enjoy in the Centennial State are also some of the very best.

Please note, the Denver Mint has suspended tours until further notice.

1. The great outdoors
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Let's begin with the obvious — and arguably best — thing to do in Colorado: explore mother nature. Colorado is home to stunning views, various animals, and trails ready to be conquered and explored! While some outdoor attractions require an entrance fee, the vast majority do not. In other words, leave your wallets behind (metaphorically speaking) and prepare to enjoy some of the most stunning scenery this country has to offer.
2. Colorado State Capitol
HaizhanZheng / Getty Images
Situated in Denver's Civic Center Park awaits the Colorado State Capital, a Neoclassical building that's both fascinating and gorgeous. Fun fact: You'll have ventured exactly one mile above sea level when you climb the stairs to the dome (the 13th step, to be exact). For more information on visiting the capital, click here.
3. Denver's Outdoor Summer Movies Series
Flickr/RPB1001
During the summer, different parks around the Denver area offer free outdoor movies on a big screen! Bring your loved ones and a picnic dinner, and get ready to enjoy a movie under the beautiful night sky. If you do choose to purchase a snack or drink, the proceeds will directly benefit nonprofits. How great is that? For more information on the Denver Outdoor Summer Movies Series, you can click here.
4. SCFD Community Free Days
Flickr/David Shankbone
The Scientific and Cultural Facilities District sponsors free days at different Denver locations, including the Museum of Nature and Science, Zoo, Botanic Gardens, and much more. Check the SCFD's website for a complete list of venues and dates.
5. Garden of the Gods
Flickr/Beverly & Pack
Few people realize that one of Colorado's most popular attractions is also one of the best free things to do in Colorado. Enjoy jaw-dropping views, fascinating exhibits, and much more at this remarkable attraction.
6. Pearl Street Mall
espiegle / Getty Images
The Pearl Street Mall is a feast for the senses: watching street performers do their thing, smelling the enticing aromas of the restaurants along the way, and feeling yourself reaching for your wallet when you find a shirt that you just HAVE to have in one of the store windows (or is that just me?). Whether it's the Pearl Street Mall in Boulder or another outdoor mall, you could easily spend an entire afternoon taking in the scenery.
7. Air Force Academy
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Exhibits, a theater, and history await you at the Air Force Academy's Visitor Center in Colorado Springs. Tourists of all ages will find their time on base to be enriching on every level. If you're thinking about visiting the Air Force Academy, be sure to check out the official visitor's guide for more information.

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8. Breweries
Andrew Crusoe
Whether you prefer an iced cold Coors Light or something heavier from a microbrewery, there are countless brewpubs in Colorado where you can enjoy free tours and samples. When it comes to memorable things to do in Colorado, experiencing local breweries is a must.
9. Celestial Seasonings
Amy the Nurse / flickr
If breweries don't happen to be your thing, then how about a spot of tea? Boulder is home to Celestial Seasonings, which also offer free tours and samples. Although, fair warning: you might just be tempted to load up on special-edition blends or even a commemorative t-shirt after taking this fun tour. For more information on Celestial Seasonings, you can click here.
10. Festivals
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Colorado offers several unique festivals throughout the year that offer free admission. Enjoy beautiful art exhibits at the Cherry Creek Art Festival, Spanish culture at the Cinco de Mayo festival, and much more!
11. Denver Mint
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Learn the history of the US Mint and see firsthand how our coins are produced. Despite the fact that this tour is all about money, admission is completely free of charge! Families should note that this tour is for adults and children over the age of 7. For more information about planning a visit to the Denver Mint, you can click here.
12. Dinosaur Ridge
Dinosaur Ridge / Facebook
Dinosaur Ridge is without a doubt one of the most unique activities on our list of free things to do in Colorado. Walk the mile-and-a-half Dinosaur Ridge trail and uncover historic fossil sites and scenic overlooks along the way. It's one of the best places to take the kiddos during any time of the year.
13. Manitou Incline
Barreiro86 / TripAdvisor
Often named the "Holy Grail of cardio workouts," the 2,744-step Manitou Incline is not for the faint of heart. If you've ever wondered what it might be like to climb the entire length of the Empire State Building, this adventure is for you. Those who have completed this super-human challenge note that the views from the top are worth the effort.
14. Red Rocks
Flickr/quan ha
The beautiful boulders and amphitheater at Red Rocks are something that everyone needs to experience at least once. If you want to spend a little money, splurge on a concert; you won't regret it! For more information on visiting Red Rocks Amphitheatre, you can visit the official website by clicking here.

What are some of your favorite free things to do in Colorado? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

If you’re looking for more adventure, check out this treetop adventure park in Colorado.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Free Things To Do In Colorado

Beth C. | July 07, 2020

What are the most unique things to do in Colorado?

When it comes to the most unique things to do in Colorado, you'll be delighted to hear that many of them won't cost you a dime. After considering our above list of free things to do in Colorado, you'll notice that many of the activities have to do with exploring the great outdoors. Some of the most unique outdoor attractions include Great Sand Dunes National Park, Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Grand Junction, Silverton, and Salida. Looking for even more inspiration? Check out this list of hidden gems in Colorado you'll want to experience as soon as possible.

Are there any dinosaur-related things to do in Colorado?

Dinosaur enthusiasts know that Colorado has no shortage of dino-related activities for all ages to enjoy. In fact, the Centennial State is often considered the gateway to all things dinosaur. Some of the best destinations for learning more about dinosaurs or enjoying dinosaur-related activities include the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, Dinosaur Ridge, the Morrison Natural History Museum, the Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Research Center, Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, and the Dinosaur National Monument. And to top it all off, you might consider taking a trip to the Picketwire Canyonlands near La Junta, where you'll find the largest collection of fossilized dinosaur footprints in the U.S.

What are the most unique parks to visit in Colorado?

Colorado is filled with breathtaking parks, though no two are exactly alike. From the sweeping plains of the east to the craggy mountain-filled landscapes, there is no shortage of fascinating parks to showcase Colorado's epic beauty. Visitors and residents alike agree that Rocky Mountain Park is one of the best places to experience Colorado's nature at its finest, although it's certainly not the only place to consider. Other unique parks in Colorado include Cheyenne Mountain State Park, State Forest State Park, Castlewood Canyon State Park, Trinidad Lake State Park, Crawford State Park, Roxborough State Park, and Barr Lake State Park.

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Featured Addresses
Hanging Lake, Colorado 81601, USA
Colorado State Capitol, 200 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80203, USA
Denver, CO, USA
Garden of the Gods Road, Garden of the Gods Rd, Colorado Springs, CO, USA
Pearl St, Boulder, CO, USA
Air Force Academy, CO 80840, USA
4600 Sleepytime Dr, Boulder, CO 80301, USA
Red Rocks Amphitheatre, 303-319 CO-8, Morrison, CO 80465, USA
The Incline, Colorado, USA