If you have ever had the pleasure of visiting gorgeous Telluride, Colorado, you know that it is an absolute gem of a small town. While this is common knowledge to both those who have visited and Coloradans in general, the rest of the country is now aware, too, as Telluride just scored a coveted spot on the list of the best small towns in Colorado. Why is Telluride among the best small towns in the U.S.? Let’s take a look.
As per the list, which surveyed countless communities with under 15,000 residents, Telluride is a no-brainer, as the former mining town is a one-stop-shop for all things quaint and Colorado.
"The town's core area is a National Historic Landmark District with Victorian-era buildings, and these days, guests can shop around boutiques and galleries or dine at local restaurants to soak up the small-town feel," shares Travel + Leisure, adding how there is also plenty to do in terms of outdoor recreation, including skiing, hiking, biking, water sports, golf, and much more.
In addition to Telluride, other must-visit small towns include Sedona, Arizona; Beaufort, South Carolina; and Carmel-by-the-Sea, California (pictured).
As previously mentioned, Telluride (which was founded in 1878 and later incorporated in 1887 as the Town of Columbia) found its original success in silver ore but - unlike other mining towns of its time - managed to evolve over the years, specializing in the railroad, skiing, and tourism.
