Unique Things to Do in Colorado: Hidden Gems & Fun Activities

Colorado is easily one of the most remarkable states in the U.S. You can find tall mountains, scenic roads, charming towns, and unforgettable adventures. If you're looking for unique things to do in Colorado beyond the typical bucket-list spots, you’re in the right place.

While well-known destinations like Rocky Mountain National Park or Vail are popular for good reason, there are countless unusual things to do in Colorado that offer a more memorable, off-the-beaten-path experience. From quirky art installations and unmatched natural beauty to hot springs and a beer-inspired day spa, Colorado is full of hidden gems.

In this guide, we’ll share the best things to do in Colorado, with something memorable for everyone, plus helpful tips for choosing your can’t-miss activities.

Visit Royal Gorge Bridge & Park

Cañon City, CO

Royal Gorge Bridge & Park is America’s highest suspension bridge and easily one of Colorado’s coolest amusement parks. You can enjoy thrilling rides and some of the state’s most dramatic scenery at this 360-acre mountain-top park.

The park is filled with activities for adrenaline junkies, including a sky coaster, gondola, and zip line. Visitors from around the world also come for the bridge’s history, which was built in the 1920s, sits nearly 1,000 feet above the Arkansas River, and offers some of the most breathtaking views in Colorado.

Relax at Oakwell Beer Spa

Denver, CO

Unwind and enjoy a unique experience at Oakwell Beer Spa — the only beer spa in the state and one of the most unusual things to do in Colorado.

Oakwell takes wellness to another level with beer-inspired spa treatments paired with a relaxing, modern taproom. Guests can enjoy craft beer or other beverages while experiencing Beer Bath Hydrotherapy, the Infrared Sauna, and a Zero Gravity Massage — each designed with restorative mind and body benefits.

There are various spa day packages so you can plan your perfect experience, whether with a partner, friends, or solo. Book your Oakwell Beer Spa visit online, or walk in to enjoy the taproom and Zero Gravity Massage. 

Paint Mines Interpretive Park

Calhan, CO

Paint Mines Interpretive Park is one of Colorado’s most colorful hidden gems. This natural area features vibrant, layered clay formations that range from soft pinks to deep oranges and purples — created by thousands of years of geological and cultural history.

The park’s trails are easy to moderate and weave through hoodoos, spires, and unique rock formations that make the landscape feel otherworldly. It’s a great spot for photography, peaceful walks, and seeing one of the most magical landscapes in Colorado.

Spend the Night at Desert Reef Hot Spring

Florence, CO

For an off-the-beaten-path Colorado getaway, spend the night at Desert Reef Hot Spring. This adults-only hot spring features mineral-rich, turquoise water surrounded by stunning desert views — a completely different vibe from Colorado’s typical alpine hot springs.

You can enjoy private soaking, quiet relaxation, and an overnight stay in modern, stylish rentals. It’s peaceful, rejuvenating, and one of the coolest things to do in Colorado if you love hidden hotspots away from the crowds.

See the Breckenridge Troll

Breckenridge, CO

The Breckenridge Troll is one of the most iconic and quirky attractions in Colorado. This 15-foot wooden sculpture was created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo and sits along the Trollstigen Trail in Breckenridge.

The flat, mile-long trail makes it easy to visit. The troll, named Isak Heartstone, offers a fun photo opp in a beautiful forest setting.

A Mountain Getaway at Steamboat Resort

Steamboat Springs, CO

Steamboat Resort is one of the most unique places in Colorado if you’re planning a ski trip. This laid-back, scenic area offers terrain for beginners through experts, along with hiking and biking trails, live music, and year-round activities.

While Steamboat is magical in winter, it’s equally charming in summer and fall, making it a perfect destination any time of year.

See Epic Views at Garden of the Gods

Colorado Springs, CO

Garden of the Gods is a registered National Natural Landmark and one of Colorado’s most photographed attractions — and for good reason. Towering sandstone formations, wildlife, and panoramic views create a dramatic, must-see landscape.

The park features accessible walking paths and more adventurous trails, making it ideal for all levels. The Visitor & Nature Center offers great exhibits, although it can get busy during peak seasons.

Colorado Springs is also a great place to spend a few days with more to explore beyond the park. And it’s only about an hour and a half from Denver if you want the perfect mix of nature and city, with several other unique places along the way.

Go to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park

Glenwood Springs, CO

Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park is one of the most fun and family-friendly attractions in Colorado. Sitting over 7,000 feet above sea level, the park offers high-altitude thrills, scenic views, and access to Colorado’s largest show cave.

Glenwood Springs sits between Vail and Aspen and is an ideal vacation spot with hot springs, outdoor adventures, and charming downtown restaurants.

See Cliff Dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park

Southwestern Colorado

Mesa Verde National Park is one of the nation’s first UNESCO World Heritage Sites and one of the most historically rich places in the Southwest. Its preserved cliff dwellings were once home to Ancestral Puebloans and are unlike anything else in the U.S.

Visitors can explore guided tours, hiking trails, a museum, and live cultural programs. Morefield Campground is tucked in a high grassy canyon nearby, offering a scenic place to stay.

Drink Beers at Wynkoop Brewing Company

Denver, CO

Colorado’s craft beer scene is unmatched, and Wynkoop Brewing Company is a must-visit if you enjoy local brews. As Colorado’s first brewpub, Wynkoop has been serving creative beers for over 30 years.

Located in historic LoDo inside the city’s largest pool hall, the brewery features pool tables, shuffleboard, a full food menu, and a fun, laid-back atmosphere. The outdoor patio is pet-friendly, too.

Explore the San Juan Mountains

Western Colorado

The San Juan Mountains is a high, dramatic mountain range that stretches through southwest Colorado. It’s home to volcano-formed peaks, alpine lakes, waterfalls, and some of the most scenic drives in the state.

Some of the best towns to explore in the San Juan Mountains are Ouray, Telluride, and Silverton. Ouray is our favorite — it’s also known as “Little Switzerland” for its charming downtown, surrounding cliffs, and stunning alpine views that feel like a mountain village.

The Most Unique Things to Do in Colorado: Conclusion

From colorful geological wonders and historic cliff dwellings to quirky art, scenic attractions, and natural hot springs, Colorado is full of hidden gems that make exploring the state unforgettable. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, there’s no shortage of cool things to do in Colorado.

And if you’re looking for the most memorable spa experience in the state, don’t miss Oakwell Beer Spa in Denver — a rejuvenating, beer-inspired wellness experience you won’t find anywhere else.