Your Ultimate Guide to Summer Fun in Colorado

It's time to start planning adventures when the long, warm summer days are upon us. With our marvelous weather and abundant opportunities for adventure, it is no wonder this state draws so many out-of-towners during the summer season. Whether you are a local or a visitor looking for some of the best things to do in Colorado in summer, we have plenty of inspiration for you, with everything from getaways to festivals to budget-friendly activities. Let the summer fun begin!

Best Summer Vacation Destinations In Colorado

Perhaps your plans for Colorado summer activities mainly include scattered day trips throughout the state. Still, if the travel bug is biting, we have rounded up a few unique destinations for an unforgettable getaway this season.

1. Palisade

• City and State: Palisade, CO
• Popularity: Popular destination for tourists during the summer months.
• Need to Know: The Best times to visit are May, June, and September, when there is mild weather and fewer crowds.

Let's start with an escape to the friendly town of Palisade, known for incredible peaches and wine. This easily accessible small town is just about 15 minutes from Grand Junction and boasts many things to see and do. Explore the historic downtown area, taste award-winning wines at some of the 30+ wineries, enjoy gorgeous views of the Grand Mesa, or attend one of the town's summer festivals.

If you are looking for outdoor adventures, take advantage of some epic opportunities for fishing, hiking, rafting, mountain biking, and camping in this memorable destination. In fact, we love Palisade Basecamp RV Resort for this summer adventure in Colorado.

2. Dinosaur National Monument

• City and State: Dinosaur, CO
• Popularity: Lesser-known and fewer crowds than other national monuments
• Need to Know: Best times to visit are May, June, September, and October, particularly for hiking. Temperatures can be extreme in mid-summer.

Drawing far less tourism than more well-known destinations, Dinosaur National Monument offers an endless array of unique outdoor activities, and a visit here is one of the most unique things for families to do in Colorado. Visit the Quarry Exhibit Hall to see a literal wall full of dinosaur bones and hike various fascinating trails to discover ancient fossils, pictographs, petroglyphs, and magnificent views of the rugged canyon and layered rocks. Take on a different kind of adventure—and a unique perspective of the towering sandstone bluffs—with a multi-day whitewater excursion down the Yampa River.

This amazing place also happens to be an International Dark Sky Park, so get ready for some of the best stargazing in the nation. As an ideal destination for true outdoor enthusiasts, the Monument has six campgrounds, three on the Colorado side and three in Utah. If you prefer ending a day of strenuous exploration with more creature comforts, book a stay in one of the small towns nearby, like one of the adorable cabins at Moosehead Lodge in Rangely.

3. Buena Vista

• City and State: Buena Vista, CO
• Popularity: Most popular during mid-summer months
• Need to Know: The summer season runs from June through mid-September. The warmest days, ideal for water activities, tend to be in July.

As the name suggests, Buena Vista is the definition of a scenic town and an outdoor-lover's paradise. This friendly, laid-back town is renowned for its whitewater rafting and water sports, so much so that there is a population of Colorado summer residents who live here for a few months each year and work as guides. Of course, the water is just one draw because Buena Vista also offers fantastic hiking, biking, horseback riding, rock climbing, and hot springs, among other adventures. The vibrant Main Street has lovely shopping and dining options, and the areas surrounding the town offer even more natural beauty to explore, including Cottonwood Lake and the hiking trails through the Collegiate Range. There are plenty of options for places to stay, such as this gorgeous riverfront hotel.

Best Lakes And Beaches To Visit In Colorado This Summer

When the Colorado summer arrives, the water calls. We certainly have our fair share of scenic lakes to visit, and many of us have our favorites, but here are a few ideas for when the only thing we want to do on a warm day is get out on the water.

4. Lake Pueblo State Park

• City and State: Pueblo, CO
• Popularity: Popular with families and anglers during spring and summer.
• Need to Know: The daily vehicle pass is $10, and campsite fees are $28-$36 per day. Visit the Lake Pueblo State Park web page to purchase a pass.

There is nothing quite like spending a summer day in Colorado at Lake Pueblo State Park. For one thing, it has become known as a "fishing hotspot." It is also a perfect place for hiking, sailing, kayaking, wildlife viewing, picnicking, and camping. In addition, the family-friendly Rock Canyon Swim Beach is open all summer long. You won't forget a fun-filled day (or an entire weekend!) exploring this beautiful 10,000-acre park.

5. Lake Isabelle

• City and State: Near Nederland, CO
• Popularity: Hiking trails around the lake are popular on weekends and during the summer months.
• Need to Know: Snow often stays on the ground through spring. The reservoir is usually drained for a period during late July to early August. The best times to visit are early summer through early fall. The daily vehicle fee is $10

There is a reason that the spectacular hiking trails through the area around Lake Isabelle are popular. This is one of the state's most pristine, clear alpine lakes. Nestled in the mountains of the Indian Peaks Wilderness, the scenery here is pretty magnificent. Access this jewel of a lake via one of the scenic trails, such as the Pawnee Pass Trail, which leads through a series of three glacier lakes, conifer trees, meadows, and streams. Be sure to pack a picnic as there are plenty of picturesque spots to sit and unwind around the lake. This seems to be the perfect summer day trip destination in Colorado for nature lovers.

6. Horsetooth Reservoir

• City and State: Fort Collins, CO
• Popularity: Popular for fishing, boating, and camping, but offers plenty of space and rarely feels crowded.
• Need to Know: Daily entrance fee is $10 per vehicle or $20 for a vehicle and a boat trailer.

Another one of this state's most beautiful lakes is Larimer County's Horsetooth Reservoir. Spend a day on the water paddleboarding, kayaking, jet skiing, swimming at the beach, or even scuba diving. If you prefer more of a dry day at the lake, bring your mountain bike, explore hiking trails, go horseback riding, or do a little fishing. Extend your lake adventure by setting up camp for an overnight stay at Horsetooth.

Parks To Visit In Colorado This Summer

When it comes to summer, nothing beats a great outdoor adventure, and our many parks offer just that, no matter what you are looking for. From hiking trails to playgrounds, a visit to an incredible park also offers a bonus—it is one of the best cheap things to do in Colorado in summer. The only cost may be a delicious picnic lunch.

7. Rifle Falls State Park

• City and State: Rifle, CO
• Popularity: Very popular
• Need to Know: A vehicle day pass is $9; an individual day pass is $4. Limited parking is available in two parking lots.

Believe us when we say it is worth joining the many people who visit our smallest state park, Rifle Falls State Park. The triple 70-foot-high waterfalls were named among the Top 10 Waterfalls in the West by Sunset magazine, and they are truly a sight to behold, as are the park's limestone cliffs and caves. This may be the perfect summer day trip for families since the park's picturesque features are as easy to access and explore as they are beautiful. Spend the day hiking, fishing, and looking for wildlife, and enjoy tent and RV camping in this tiny 48-acre park.

8. Red Rock Canyon Open Space

• City and State: Colorado Springs, CO
• Popularity: Hidden gem in plain sight! This park is most popular on weekends, especially during summer in Colorado.
• Need to Know: Admission to this park is free.

Red Rock Canyon Open Space is a remarkable place many pass up as they head for the spectacular Garden of the Gods, its famous neighbor. But we think not exploring this fascinating park is a mistake. This is a one-of-a-kind landscape, featuring reclaimed quarries, gravel pits, and even a landfill, now smothered in wild nature, including cactus, wildflowers, and trees. Whether you come to enjoy a leisurely stroll, an epic hike, or anything in between, you will find a perfect trail waiting for you, complete with amazing views of red rock formations and even the Garden of the Gods itself. There are also scenic picnic areas and two fenced-in loops for dogs, and they can run around off-leash in these areas only.

9. Centennial Center Park

• City and State: Centennial, CO
• Popularity: Most popular on weekends, but has multiple play areas and plenty of space for all to enjoy.
• Need to Know: The bark is open during summer and fall from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Splash pad water play hours are Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Four group areas can be reserved: the Coffee Shelter, Large Shelter, Plaza, and Amphitheater.

Of course, hiking adventures are not the only reason to visit a park in Colorado this summer. If you are looking for a fantastic place to bring the kids, one that literally everyone can enjoy, we absolutely cannot say enough good things about the award-winning Centennial Center Park with its giant inclusive playground. Kids of every age and ability will have a non-stop blast swinging, playing, climbing, and exploring. The massive colorful splash pad is a splendid way to cool off on a hot day. Centennial Center Park Playground is a haven for kids. Still, adults will also love this park, which has 11 acres that include nature areas, an amphitheater, grassy lawns, shaded picnic tables, and more. And Fido can come along, too.

Best Free Summer Activities

We know families are always looking for inexpensive ways to have fun, but let's be honest - we all appreciate free things to do in Colorado in summer, right? Whatever your summer fun budget, you will love these ideas that won't cost you a dime.

10. Movies on the Green in Central Park

• City and State: Denver, CO
• Popularity: Growing in popularity with plenty of room for everyone to relax.
• Need to Know: Street parking only. Movies generally begin at dusk on Fridays throughout the summer.

Starting in June each summer, you can catch free outdoor movies at MCA Central Park. Bring a blanket, chairs, a cooler, and snacks—oh, and your friends and family—for a fun evening under the sky. Grab popcorn, candy, and beverages from the concessions stand or some goodies from food trucks that usually park near the site. There are also free outdoor concerts at Central Park throughout the summer. Check out or follow MCA on Facebook to see upcoming events.

11. Four Mile Historic Park

• City and State: Denver, CO
• Popularity: Most popular on weekends; visit on a weekday for a quieter experience.
• Need to Know: The park is open Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. during summer and fall months (weekends only from January through May). Tickets can be reserved (including free days) on the park's website.

The site of Denver's oldest standing house, Four Mile Historic Park, gives visitors a unique opportunity to step away from the frenzy of modern city life and back in time. On the fourth Friday of the month throughout the year, this 12-acre oasis in the city offers free admission. Wander through the gardens and trails, meet friendly farm animals, tour the museum, and even pan for "gold." A working homestead, costumed tour guides, a stagecoach stop, covered wagons, live demonstrations, and replica buildings give you a genuine feel for local life in the 1800s. Check the official park website for a full event calendar, including free days.

12. Bishop Castle

• City and State: Rye, CO
• Popularity: Popular roadside attraction.
• Need to Know: Parking is along the shoulder of the road. There are no guided tours, but is open to explore on your own. The dragon is usually fired up on summer weekends in Colorado.

This state has some truly weird and wonderful sites, but Bishop Castle might take the cake. This is one of the strangest buildings in Colorado (don't take our word for it—House Beautiful named it so!), and it is always free to visit. Visitors of all ages will find this quirky three-story stone castle completely mesmerizing, from its towers and wild bridges to its whimsical stained glass windows to its dragon—its actual fire-breathing dragon! One man, Jim Bishop, built this elaborate structure, and you will never forget exploring it.

Best Summer Events And Festivals In Colorado

With the many local events taking place throughout the season, there are a multitude of ways to celebrate summer. Take a look at a handful of some of the special festivals that you won't want to miss.

13. Water Lantern Festival

• City and State: Thornton, CO
• Popularity: Very popular event
• Need to Know: Tickets can be purchased up to a month before the event day. Purchase tickets early for a discounted rate.

If you're looking for romantic things to do in Colorado in summer, plan to attend the annual Water Lantern Festival at Carpenter Park in Thornton. This magical celebration takes place at Carpenter Park each summer and is as dreamy as it sounds. Festivities start late afternoon at 5:30 p.m. with live music performances and gourmet food trucks. At 8 p.m., you have the opportunity to decorate your own lantern. From 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., the lanterns are set adrift in the lake, and as darkness sets in, the glowing spectacle is breathtaking. Mark your calendars and buy tickets so you don't miss this enchanting summer festival in Colorado.

14. Yampa Valley Balloon Rodeo

• City and State: Steamboat Springs, CO
• Popularity: Popular, highly anticipated event
• Need to Know: The event is free at Bald Eagle Lake. The balloon launch starts at 6:00 a.m.

Prepare for the most colorful festival of the year—the annual three-day Hot Air Balloon Rodeo. More than 20 vibrant balloons will float through the early morning sky for the most visually stunning and photo-worthy display. As with any festival worth attending, there will be plenty of other fun things to do, including local food trucks, vendors, and live entertainment. Set your alarm so you don't miss Colorado's most colorful summer festival!

15. Denver Food and Wine Festival

• City and State: Denver, CO
• Popularity: Very popular event
• Need to Know: Tickets sell out every year, so we recommend purchasing your tickets early. The event takes place on grass (with lots of standing and walking), and the weather can be unpredictable in September; be sure to check the forecast and plan to wear comfortable shoes.

What better way to end the summer season than four days of foodie fun at the Denver Food and Wine Festival? At this incredible event, you not only have the opportunity to sample plenty of fantastic flavors, but you will also learn about and support some of the state's best chefs, restaurants, food trucks, wineries, and bartenders. The festival features tastings, a cocktail competition, seminars, an online auction, and of course, massive amounts of food and drink. This September, send summer off with a bang!

There is no such thing as a dull summer in the Centennial State! Which of these places and events do you plan to experience this year? What other must-do activities are on your "things to do in Colorado in summer" list? Whatever your plans, have a fun and memorable summer season in Colorado!