13 Unique Things to Do in Colorado for Young Adults (Beyond the Basics!)

Colorado knocked my socks off. The Rocky Mountains are even more epic in person, and watching the sunrise paint the Maroon Bells that perfect shade of gold was a moment I’ll never forget. Even Denver surprised me with its incredible food scene and Red Rocks Amphitheatre (seriously, catch a concert there if you can).

The things to do in Colorado pack a serious punch, from hiking through Garden of the Gods to skiing world-class slopes at Vail. After exploring both mountains and cities, let me show you why this state became one of my favorite outdoor playgrounds in America.

Unmissable Places to Visit in Colorado for Young Adults

Looking for the coolest things to do in Colorado for Young Adults? Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Rocky Mountain National Park, catch a live show at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, hit the slopes or trails in Vail, and experience adventure with River Runners. Whether you’re into nature, music, or adrenaline-fueled activities, here are the top attractions to visit in Colorado for Young Adults.

1. Explore Rocky Mountain National Park

With alpine lakes, winding trails, and high-altitude views, Rocky Mountain National Park is one of Colorado’s best outdoor experiences. The park is just 90 minutes from Denver, making it an easy day trip. One of the most rewarding hikes is the Emerald Lake Trail—a 3.2-mile roundtrip route that passes Nymph and Dream Lake, ending with postcard-perfect views at Emerald Lake.

We hit the trail early in the morning and had sections nearly to ourselves. Along the way, we saw elk grazing near the meadows and caught a glimpse of marmots sunbathing on the rocks. If you’re visiting between late May and mid-October, remember to book a timed entry permit in advance. Entrance is $30 per vehicle for a day. Whether you’re hiking, wildlife spotting, or just taking in the mountain air, Rocky Mountain National Park offers a true taste of Colorado’s wilderness.

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2. Enjoy a Concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Catching a show at Red Rocks Amphitheatre should be high on any Colorado itinerary. Just outside Denver, this naturally formed, open-air venue is built between two massive red sandstone monoliths. The acoustics are unreal, and the backdrop of city lights below adds to the magic.

I saw a concert here last summer, and the atmosphere was like nothing else—cool mountain air, stars overhead, and a crowd that felt electric. Even if there’s no show scheduled, it’s worth visiting during the day. You can walk the amphitheatre steps, explore the Red Rocks Park trails, or check out the Colorado Music Hall of Fame inside the visitor center.

Parking is free, and there’s a shuttle service during events. If you love live music or just want a memorable place to hang with friends, Red Rocks absolutely delivers on experience.

3. Go on an Adventure in Vail

Vail isn’t just a winter resort—it’s a year-round mountain playground. During ski season, you’ll find over 5,000 acres of terrain spread across the Front Side, Back Bowls, and Blue Sky Basin. But in summer, the village transforms into a base for hiking, biking, zip-lining, and festivals.

I visited in July and took the Eagle Bahn Gondola up to Eagle’s Nest, where we spent the day hiking wildflower-covered trails and enjoying panoramic views. Later, we cooled off with local beer at Vail Brewing Co. The cobblestone streets and chalet-style buildings give Vail a European vibe, and it’s walkable, which is a bonus.

Lodging fills up quickly in both peak seasons, so booking early helps. Whether you’re carving down powder runs or biking into alpine meadows, Vail is packed with activities that make you feel like you’re in the heart of the Rockies.

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4. Arkansas River Rafting With River Runners

For pure adrenaline, nothing beats whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River with River Runners, based in Buena Vista and Cañon City. They offer half-day to full-day trips through scenic canyons and thrilling Class III to V rapids. It’s a must if you want something active and unforgettable.

We booked the Bighorn Sheep Canyon trip, which had a great mix of fun rapids and calm stretches to enjoy the views. Our guide was skilled, safety-focused, and cracked jokes the whole way, which helped settle the nerves. The water was cold, but the gear kept us comfortable. Prices start around $79, with all equipment included.

You can even rent a riverside cabin if you want to turn it into a weekend getaway. Whether it’s your first time rafting or your fifth, River Runners makes the Arkansas River feel like an epic outdoor amusement park.

5. Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs feels like nature showing off. This free public park is filled with towering red sandstone formations like Kissing Camels and Balanced Rock, with Pikes Peak rising in the distance. Whether you hike, drive, or cycle through, it’s an easy way to experience Colorado’s epic scenery.

We parked at the Visitor & Nature Center and walked the paved Perkins Central Garden Trail—an easy loop surrounded by dramatic cliffs and spires. There were rock climbers scaling the walls, families snapping photos, and even a few mule deer wandering through. You don’t need a reservation, but weekends can get busy, so go early if you want quieter trails.

If you’re up for it, climbing is allowed in designated zones with a free permit. Garden of the Gods is a classic stop for anyone who wants nature and accessibility in one place.

6. Go Sandboarding at Great Sand Dunes National Park

For an unexpected twist on outdoor adventure, visit Great Sand Dunes National Park near Alamosa. Home to the tallest dunes in North America—some up to 750 feet—this park lets you rent a sandboard or sled and surf the slopes instead of snow.

We rented gear from Oasis Store, just outside the entrance, and headed straight for the High Dune. Climbing it was a workout, but sliding down was a blast. The sand gets hot in summer, so closed shoes are a must. After a few runs, we cooled off in Medano Creek, which flows at the base of the dunes during late spring and early summer. Entry is $25 per vehicle.

For something totally different and surprisingly thrilling, Great Sand Dunes delivers a unique kind of high-altitude fun. You’ll leave with sand in your shoes—and probably your backpack—but it’s worth it.

7. Visit Mesa Verde: Where History Feels Alive

Mesa Verde National Park offers a rare chance to explore real cliff dwellings built by the Ancestral Puebloans over 700 years ago. Located near Cortez, this UNESCO World Heritage Site blends outdoor adventure with fascinating archaeology and cultural history.

We joined a ranger-led tour of Cliff Palace, and walking through the preserved stone structures built into the rock face was surreal. The guide shared stories about daily life, construction methods, and spiritual traditions that gave real context to the ruins. Outside the dwellings, you can hike the Petroglyph Point Trail or drive the Mesa Top Loop Road for scenic overlooks and pit house sites.

Entrance is $30 per vehicle, and guided tours book up fast, so reserve early. If you like history mixed with stunning views, Mesa Verde is one of the most memorable places in Colorado.

8. Chilling at Desert Reef Hot Springs

After mountain hikes and adrenaline-filled activities, Desert Reef Hot Springs near Florence offers a slower, more relaxing pace. This mineral-rich spring is set in a quiet, semi-desert landscape with mountain views, making it perfect for a low-key afternoon.

We arrived early and got lucky with a poolside lounger. The water temperature stays around 100°F, and the vibe is peaceful—no loud music or big crowds. Most of the space is clothing-optional, but they do host swimsuit-only days too. Entry is $18, and reservations are required due to limited capacity. Bring your own towel and water; no food is sold onsite.

The experience felt more intimate and local than bigger commercial hot springs. If you’re looking to rest and reset between hikes, a few hours at Desert Reef Hot Springs will do the trick. It’s a hidden gem that invites you to slow down.

9. Explore the Denver Art Museum

If you’re craving culture between outdoor excursions, head to the Denver Art Museum in the city’s Golden Triangle district. Known for its bold architecture and expansive collections, the museum is especially strong in Indigenous American art, Western works, and rotating global exhibitions.

We visited during a special exhibit on street art, but the permanent collections were just as compelling. The layout is modern and easy to navigate, with hands-on galleries and great city views from the upper floors. Admission is $18 for non-residents, but it’s free for anyone under 18, making it a budget-friendly outing for younger travelers. The museum café also serves solid coffee and pastries.

Whether you spend an hour or half a day here, Denver Art Museum adds a thoughtful, creative contrast to all the nature-heavy activities in Colorado. It’s definitely more than a rainy-day backup.

10. Boulder’s Pearl Street Mall

Pearl Street Mall in Boulder is more than a shopping strip—it’s the city’s social hub. Stretching four pedestrian-only blocks, it’s packed with street performers, indie shops, art galleries, and locally-owned cafés that give it real personality. Whether you’re here for shopping or just people-watching, the vibe is lively and welcoming.

I spent an afternoon here sipping coffee from Ozo Coffee and catching a juggling act in front of Into the Wind, a quirky kite shop. There’s no shortage of breweries nearby, like Mountain Sun Pub, where I tried a flight of local IPAs. The energy changes throughout the day—laid-back in the morning, busier and more festive by evening.

Pearl Street is great for browsing, eating, or just relaxing outdoors. If you’re in Boulder, this is where you’ll feel the city’s creative, youthful side the most.

11. Eat Your Way Through Denver’s Famous Food Scene

Denver’s food scene blends local ingredients with global influences, making it one of the best places to eat in the state. You’ll find everything from craft taco joints and vegan diners to upscale farm-to-table experiences. Fruition Restaurant and Linger are two standout spots worth the hype.

We made a reservation at Fruition and tried the seasonal tasting menu—every dish was rich in flavor without being overdone. On another night, we headed to Linger, housed in a former mortuary, which sounds odd but works. Their rooftop patio and eclectic small plates made it one of our favorite nights out in the city.

You can easily spend a weekend in Denver hopping from one foodie neighborhood to the next: RiNo, LoHi, and South Broadway all deliver. If you’re a young traveler who travels with their appetite, Denver won’t disappoint.

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12. Time Travel Through Colorado on the Durango & Silverton Train

For a scenic ride that feels like stepping into a Western film, hop aboard the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This historic steam train travels 45 miles through San Juan National Forest, hugging cliffs and passing waterfalls on the way to the mountain town of Silverton.

We boarded early in Durango and rode in one of the open-air cars for the full experience. The slow pace gives you time to really take in the dramatic views. Once in Silverton, we explored the old mining town and grabbed lunch at a saloon-style café before catching the return trip. Tickets start around $100 for standard seats, and it’s best to book in advance.

This ride isn’t just about transportation—it’s a full-on experience. If you want stunning mountain scenery with a dose of Old West charm, this train delivers both.

13. Let Breckenridge Be Your Winter Wonderland

Breckenridge is a favorite winter destination for good reason. This former mining town blends top-tier skiing with small-town charm. The slopes at Breckenridge Ski Resort cover five peaks and offer terrain for every skill level, from easy greens to expert bowls.

I spent a day on Peak 9, then wandered through Main Street, which is packed with cozy cafés, gear shops, and restaurants. I grabbed a cinnamon roll from Clint’s Bakery and warmed up at Broken Compass Brewery with a flight of local beers. Even non-skiers will find plenty to enjoy—snowshoeing, sleigh rides, and a buzzing après-ski scene.

The town feels festive all season with lights, music, and mountain views everywhere you turn. If you’re visiting in winter, pack layers and plan ahead—lodging fills up fast. For young adults wanting snow, adventure, and fun off the slopes, Breckenridge checks every box.