Posted in Colorado Hot Springs, Nature June 09, 2018 by

This Tiny Town In Colorado Has A Little Bit Of Everything

What is it about tiny Colorado towns that make them seem anything but, well, tiny? Is it the residents with big personalities and even bigger hearts? The larger-than-life attractions and scenery? The mom and pop restaurants that serve home-cooked portions the size of a small child? Whatever it is, we cannot get enough of it, which is why we are sharing one of our very favorites with you:

Located in western Colorado is beautiful Ridgway.
Wikimedia Commons
The town is aptly nicknamed both the "Gateway to the San Juans" and the "Town That Refused to Die."
Currently home to just under 1,000 residents, Ridgway was once a thriving railroad town, serving the nearby (and better known) mining towns of Ouray and Telluride.
Ridgway Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook
Despite the fact that the railroads were abandoned and the nearby mines dried up, Ridgway has continued to prosper thanks to notable residents and surrounding attractions and events.
Ridgway Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook
You may not know the name John Billings, but you definitely know his work; Billings crafts every one of the iconic Grammy awards by hand from his Ridgway studio.
Now that you know a bit more about this tiny town, it is time to begin exploring what all there is to do, beginning with the food scene.
Kate's Place Facebook
Breweries? Check. Charming coffee shops? Double check. Authentic Mexican food? DUH! Trust us; you will not leave Ridgway hungry! (Pictured are some of the tasty breakfast options from Kate's Place.)
The Ridgway Creative District is a source of endless entertainment.
Ridgway Creative District Facebook
Colorado's FIRST ever Creative District is in Ridgway and it houses art galleries, theaters, festivals, and more.
Outdoor recreation opportunities abound.
Flickr/J. Stephen Conn
The town is a mere two miles south of Ridgway State Park; an incredible 3,201-acre park complete with a 1,000-acre reservoir. (Need I say more?)
And you'll even find relaxing hot springs.
Orvis Hot Springs Facebook
Clothing at the Orvis Hot Springs is optional (wink wink).
There's so much to love about Ridgeway, and this tiny town proves that size doesn't matter when it comes to having fun.
Flickr/Granger Meador
Flickr/Mark Land
You can find out even more about beautiful Ridgway by visiting the Ridgway Chamber of Commerce's website.

Have you visited Ridgeway? What’s your favorite thing to do in this charming little town? Are there other amazing small towns that are packed with fun? Let us know in the comments below!

Check out even more of our favorite small towns featured in our previous article: These 14 Colorado Towns Might Be Tiny… But Their Restaurants Are Amazing.