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If you’re planning a trip to Colorado, you won’t want to miss out on the state’s incredible historic landmarks. From ancient ruins to modern marvels, Colorado has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in Native American history, the Wild West, or the state’s mining heritage, there are plenty of must-see historic landmarks in Colorado to explore.
One of Colorado’s most famous landmarks is the Mesa Verde National Park, which is home to some of the best-preserved Native American cliff dwellings in North America. The park is located in the southwestern corner of the state and features over 5,000 archaeological sites, including the famous Cliff Palace and Balcony House.
Visitors can take guided tours of the cliff dwellings and learn about the Ancestral Puebloan people who lived there over 700 years ago.
Another must-see landmark in Colorado is the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater, located just outside of Denver. This stunning natural amphitheater is surrounded by towering red rock formations and has hosted some of the biggest names in music over the years.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the amphitheater, hike the nearby trails, or attend a concert or event at the venue. Whether you’re a history buff or a nature lover, Colorado has many must-see historic landmarks are sure to leave you in awe.
Denver, The Mile High City
Denver, also known as the Mile High City, is the capital of Colorado and home to many historic landmarks.
Colorado State Capitol
200 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80203
The Colorado State Capitol is a beautiful architectural masterpiece located atop Capitol Hill. The building was constructed in the 1890s and was designed to resemble the United States Capitol building. The building is made of white granite and has a gold dome, which is covered in 200 ounces of 24-karat gold leaf.
Visitors can take free guided tours of the building to admire the stunning interior, including the impressive rotunda and the “Mile High” marker on the 13th step of the west entrance. The marker indicates that Denver is one mile above sea level, hence the nickname “Mile High City.” The building also houses the offices of the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and state legislators.
Denver Union Station
1701 Wynkoop, Denver Colorado 80202
Denver Union Station is a historic landmark that has been a transportation hub for over 100 years. The station was built in 1914 and was recently renovated to become a modern transportation center with shops, restaurants, and a hotel.
The station’s Beaux-Arts architecture and grand hall make it a must-see landmark in Denver. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the station to learn about its history and architecture. The station also serves as a transportation hub for Amtrak, local buses, and light rail.
Denver is home to many must-see historic landmarks, but the Colorado State Capitol and Denver Union Station are two must-see landmarks that you should not miss when visiting the Mile High City.
Pikes Peak Region
If you’re interested in the history of Colorado, the Pikes Peak region is a must-see destination. Here are two historic landmarks that should be on your list.
Garden of the Gods
1805 N 30th Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
The Garden of the Gods is a National Natural Landmark located in Colorado Springs. The park features stunning red sandstone formations that are millions of years old. In addition to its natural beauty, the Garden of the Gods has a rich cultural history.
Native American tribes, including the Ute, Cheyenne, and Arapaho, gathered at the base of Pikes Peak, near the park’s abundant springs. During the 1700s, both French and Spanish flags flew over the region.
Today, visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, rock climb, and take guided tours. The Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center offers exhibits on the park’s geology, ecology, and cultural history.
Manitou Cliff Dwellings
10 Cliff Rd, Manitou Springs, CO 80829
The Manitou Cliff Dwellings are a unique archaeological site located in Manitou Springs. The dwellings were built by the Ancestral Puebloans, who inhabited the area from AD 1200 to 1300. The site features authentic cliff dwellings that were relocated from their original location in southwestern Colorado.
Visitors can explore the dwellings and learn about the daily life of the Ancestral Puebloans. The site also includes a museum with exhibits on the history and culture of the region’s Native American tribes. In addition, the Manitou Cliff Dwellings offer cultural events and educational programs throughout the year.
Both the Garden of the Gods and the Manitou Cliff Dwellings are fascinating destinations that offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Pikes Peak region. Don’t miss them on your next trip to Colorado!
Mesa Verde National Park
If you’re interested in ancient history and culture, Mesa Verde National Park should be on your list of must-see landmarks in Colorado. This park is home to some of the best-preserved archaeological sites and cliff dwellings in the United States.
Mesa Verde National Park is located in southwestern Colorado and covers an area of 52,074 acres. It was established on June 29, 1906, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One of the most popular things to do in Mesa Verde National Park is to take a guided tour of the cliff dwellings. The park has over 600 cliff dwellings and 4,000 archaeological sites, including the famous Cliff Palace, which is the largest cliff dwelling in North America. You can also visit Balcony House, Long House, and Spruce Tree House, which are all impressive sites to see.
In addition to the cliff dwellings, Mesa Verde National Park also has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the park’s landscape. The Petroglyph Point Trail is a 2.4-mile hike that takes you to an overlook with views of the surrounding canyons and mesas. The Knife Edge Trail is a challenging 2.2-mile hike that takes you to the top of a mesa with panoramic views of the park.
If you’re interested in learning more about the history and culture of the Ancestral Pueblo people who lived in Mesa Verde National Park, be sure to visit the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum. The museum has exhibits that showcase the park’s archaeology, geology, and ecology.
Mesa Verde National Park is a must-see landmark in Colorado that offers a unique glimpse into the past. Whether you’re interested in ancient history, archaeology, or hiking, there’s something for everyone at this amazing park.
Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
479 Main Avenue, Durango, CO 81301
If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the stunning scenery of Colorado, then the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a must-see attraction. This historic railroad has been operating for over 140 years and takes you on a journey through the remote wilderness and high mountain landscape of the San Juan National Forest.
The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a 3 ft (914 mm) narrow-gauge heritage railroad that operates on 45.2 mi (72.7 km) of track between Durango and Silverton, in the U.S. state of Colorado. The route crosses the Animas River five times and has an elevation climb of 2,800 feet, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
One of the most popular trip options on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a round trip that starts in Durango, stops in Silverton, and returns back to Durango. You can choose between a historic steam engine or a cheaper diesel engine that offers the same views and experience. The trip takes approximately 3-1/2 hours, with the train chugging along at no more than 20 miles per hour.
The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad was originally built in 1881-82 as part of the Denver and Rio Grande Railway’s effort to reach the rich mines of the San Juan Mountains. For decades, the line hauled ore from Silverton down to Durango, but after World War II, its business shifted to tourism.
Today, it continues to be a major tourist attraction in southwest Colorado and has been named both a National Historic Landmark and a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark.
If you’re interested in history, engineering, or just love the beauty of nature, then a trip on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a must-see experience. So, hop aboard and enjoy the ride!
Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site
35110 CO-194, La Junta, CO 81050
If you’re interested in history and want to learn more about the Santa Fe Trail, Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site is a must-see landmark in Colorado. This reconstructed 1840s adobe fur trading post is located on the mountain branch of the Santa Fe Trail, where traders, trappers, travelers, and the Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes came together in peaceful terms for trade.
Bent’s Old Fort was a center of commercial, social, military, and cultural exchange along the Santa Fe Trail. It was built in 1833 by William Bent, a prominent trader, and his brother Charles Bent. The fort was a crucial stopping point for travelers on the Santa Fe Trail, who could rest, resupply, and trade with the traders and Native American tribes who frequented the fort.
The fort was destroyed in 1849, but it was reconstructed in the 1970s using detailed historical records and archaeological research. Today, visitors can explore the fort and learn about life on the Santa Fe Trail through interactive exhibits, ranger-led programs, and living history demonstrations.
Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site is a National Historic Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s open year-round and offers a variety of educational programs and special events throughout the year.
If you’re interested in history and want to learn more about the Santa Fe Trail and the role of Bent’s Old Fort in the history of the American West, be sure to add these historic landmarks to your list of must-see sites in Colorado.
Leadville, The Two-Mile-High City
If you’re looking for a city rich in history and culture, Leadville is a must-visit destination. Located at an elevation of 10,152 feet, it is the highest incorporated city in North America. Here are some of the top landmarks to visit in Leadville.
Tabor Opera House
308 Harrison Ave, Leadville, CO 80461
Built in 1879 by Horace Tabor, the Tabor Opera House is a historic landmark that has been restored to its former glory. It is home to one of the finest collections of historical stage scenery in North America. The opera house was once a popular venue for plays, concerts, and other cultural events. Today, it hosts a variety of performances and events throughout the year.
National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum
120 W 9th St, Leadville, CO 80461
The National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum is a fitting tribute to Leadville’s rich mining history. Located in the historic Leadville High School building, the museum features exhibits that showcase the history of mining in the United States.
You can see mining equipment, artifacts, and photographs that tell the story of the industry’s development over time. The museum also has a research library, a gift shop, and a theater that shows mining-related films.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or natural beauty, Leadville has something to offer. Don’t miss the chance to explore this unique city and its many landmarks.
Fort Garland Museum and Cultural Center
29477 CO-159, Fort Garland, CO 81133
If you’re interested in exploring the history of Colorado’s San Luis Valley, then the Fort Garland Museum and Cultural Center is a must-visit landmark. This museum is a site of History Colorado and is located in the southern part of the state.
Fort Garland was a US Army outpost from 1858 to 1883, and today, visitors can explore life in a nineteenth-century military fort by walking the parade grounds and touring five of the original adobe buildings. The museum includes five of its original adobe buildings, making it a great place to learn about the history of the area.
The Fort Garland Museum and Cultural Center is open year-round, and visitors can enjoy a variety of exhibits and events throughout the year. You can learn about the history of the fort, the people who lived there, and the events that shaped the region. The museum also offers educational programs, special events, and guided tours.
One of the unique features of the Fort Garland Museum and Cultural Center is its focus on the history of enslavement and indigenous people in southern Colorado. The museum hosts bilingual and virtual events exploring this history, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the area’s past.
The Fort Garland Museum and Cultural Center is a fascinating landmark that offers a unique glimpse into the history of Colorado’s San Luis Valley. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for an interesting place to visit, this museum is well worth a visit.
Final Thoughts on Must-See Historic Landsmarks in Colorado
Congratulations! You have just completed a virtual tour of some of the most iconic historic landmarks in Colorado. From the ancient cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde to the grandeur of the Stanley Hotel, you have seen a diverse range of historic sites that showcase the rich history and culture of Colorado.
As you plan your next trip to Colorado, be sure to add some of these must-see historic landmarks to your itinerary. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique and memorable experience, these landmarks are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Remember to check the opening hours and admission fees of each site before you go. Some landmarks require advanced booking, so plan ahead to avoid disappointment. Additionally, be respectful of the sites and their history by following any rules and regulations, and by leaving the site as you found it.
We hope this guide has inspired you to explore the must-see historic landmarks of Colorado. With so much history and culture to discover, the possibilities are endless. Happy exploring!
Frequently Asked Questions about Must-See Historic Landsmarks in Colorado
What are some must-see historic sites in Colorado?
Colorado is home to several must-see historic sites. Some of the most popular ones include Mesa Verde National Park, Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site, and the Colorado Chautauqua.
What are the top three famous landmarks in Colorado?
Colorado has many famous landmarks, but the top three are probably Pikes Peak, Red Rocks Amphitheatre, and the Royal Gorge Bridge.
What is the most well-known historic landmark in Colorado?
The most well-known historic landmark in Colorado is probably Mesa Verde National Park. This park is home to some of the best-preserved ancient cliff dwellings in North America.
What are two significant historical landmarks in Colorado?
Two significant must-see historic landmarks in Colorado are the Molly Brown House Museum and the Colorado State Capitol. The Molly Brown House Museum is the former home of Titanic survivor Molly Brown, while the Colorado State Capitol is a beautiful building that houses the offices of the governor and the state legislature.
What are some important events in Colorado’s history?
Colorado has a rich and varied history, and there have been many important events over the years. Some of the most significant include the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush, the Ludlow Massacre, and the legalization of marijuana.
What are some natural landmarks in Colorado worth visiting?
Colorado is known for its stunning natural landmarks, and there are many worth visiting. Some of the most popular include Rocky Mountain National Park, Garden of the Gods, and the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.
