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Nearly Straddling The State Border, The Town Of Cortez, Colorado Is One Of The Most Unique Places To Visit

Cortez, Colorado, offers a blend of historical sites, outdoor activities, and charming local experiences.

Published Apr 13, 2023

Written by 

Annie Sandmeier

If you are a tried and true Coloradan, you have probably taken a trip or two to visit the southwest corner of the state and its many attractions like the Four Corners and Mesa Verde National Park. While there, did you take the time to visit any of the charming towns and explore everything it offers? If you answered no, you are missing out on some of the best small towns in Colorado, including Cortez:

Located a mere 28 miles from the New Mexico border, Cortez is a town of just under 9,000 with easy access to some of the best historical sites in the state!

A quiet street scene at dusk, featuring shops and cars under a blue sky with streetlights illuminating the road.
Flickr/Wayne Hsieh

Established in 1886 as housing for those working on the tunnels and irrigation ditches along the Dolores River, and is now a mecca for prehistoric attractions, including the Canyon of the Ancients National Monument, Hovenweep National Monument, and the previously mentioned Mesa Verde National Park.

Ancient cliff dwellings nestled under a rocky overhang, surrounded by trees and shrubs in a desert landscape.
Flickr/Jacqueline Poggi

It isn't just the intricate archeology that encompasses Cortez, thanks to its exciting landscapes that are perfect for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and watersports.

Two riders on horseback in a desert landscape with rocky formations and greenery under a clear blue sky.
TripAdvisor/angiesmith156

Where will you explore first? The San Juan National Forest? Mancos State Park? How about the Dolores River Canyon (pictured)?

A winding river flows through a rocky canyon, surrounded by lush greenery and steep cliffs under a clear blue sky.
Flickr/Simon Foot

Don't worry - there is no wrong answer!

While the outskirts of Cortez are exciting, the town itself is equal parts charming and historical.

A quiet street lined with trees, leading to distant mountains under a clear blue sky.
Flickr/Doug Kerr

In downtown Cortez, you will find unique boutique shopping, cultural experiences, and dining, a la Mexican fare, drive-in favorites, and even a bistro.

A large, mural-covered building with ladders and warm lighting, set against a cloudy evening sky.
Flickr/Jacqueline Poggi

If you plan to stay for more than one day (which we highly recommend), you will discover incredible accommodations, like the eclectic Retro Inn and Kelly Place Bed and Breakfast.

A small adobe-style house with a red tile roof, set against a rocky hillside and surrounded by green grass and trees.
TripAdvisor/Management

To learn more about this unique Colorado town, please visit Cortez, Colorado.

A vintage cinema building with a marquee displaying "Mall Cop 2" and "Avengers 2," surrounded by parked trucks.
Flickr/Jasperdo

Do you have a favorite attraction, event, or restaurant that you would like to see featured on Only in Colorado? Nominate it on our website! While you're visiting one of the best small towns in Colorado, be sure to also dine at this tasty Cortez restaurant!

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