If you’re thinking about moving to Colorado, bustling cities like Denver or Colorado Springs might come to mind. However, this state has much more to offer. From quaint downtowns to festivals that bring the community together, Colorado’s small towns are perfect for anyone looking to experience what life is like in its quieter corners. In this Redfin article, we’ll discuss 9 charming small towns in Colorado, each with their own unique character and plenty of reasons to call home.
Clifton is located in the heart of the Grand Valley. Known for its proximity to Palisade’s famous vineyards and peach orchards, Clifton is a popular destination for wine and fruit lovers who enjoy sampling local wines and fresh produce. The nearby Colorado River provides plenty of opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and leisurely walks along the riverbank. On weekends, locals head to the Grand Mesa, the largest flat-topped mountain in the world, for hiking, camping, and scenic drives.
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Situated at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, Monument is a town with stunning mountain views. The town’s historic downtown has a mix of local shops, restaurants, and art galleries, making it a favorite spot for a leisurely afternoon. Each summer, the town comes together for the annual Monument Art Hop. This is an exciting event where residents explore local art and enjoy live music and food vendors. Outdoor enthusiasts love Monument’s close proximity to Pike National Forest, where hiking and biking trails provide breathtaking views of the mountains.
Fountain was once called the “America’s Millennium City” because it had a population makeup that closely resembled the rest of the United States in the late 1990’s. The town is just a short drive from Colorado Springs, yet maintains a small-town feel. Local favorites like Metcalfe Park offer residents a great space for picnics and outdoor activities. Additionally, Fountain’s military roots run deep, with nearby Fort Carson serving as a key base for the U.S. Army.
Fort Morgan, located on Colorado’s eastern plains, is a town with a fascinating blend of history, agriculture, and culture. The Fort Morgan Museum showcases the area’s pioneer heritage, while the town’s connection to jazz great Glenn Miller, who grew up here, is celebrated with an annual Glenn Miller Festival. Agriculture remains a vital part of the local economy. Visitors can experience this at the Morgan County Fair, where livestock shows, rodeos, and fair food bring the community together. Riverside Park, located along the South Platte River, is a popular spot for family gatherings, fishing, and birdwatching.
Known for its agricultural roots, Sterling celebrates its heritage each year with the Logan County Fair. During the fair, you’ll find locals enjoying rodeos, livestock shows, and carnival rides. History buffs can explore the Overland Trail Museum, which showcases the pioneer history of the region, complete with a collection of historic buildings and exhibits. Additionally, Sterling’s proximity to the South Platte River makes it a favorite for outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and hiking along the riverbanks.
Steamboat Springs, located in the Yampa Valley, is a great destination for both winter and summer adventures. Known as “Ski Town, U.S.A.,” Steamboat is home to the famous Steamboat Ski Resort, where powdery slopes attract skiers and snowboarders from around the globe. In the summer, residents enjoy tubing down the Yampa River or hiking the scenic trails around Fish Creek Falls. The town’s Old West charm comes alive each summer during the Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo, a celebration of its cowboy heritage. Whether hitting the slopes or enjoying the local hot springs, Steamboat Springs offers year-round outdoor activities paired with a laid-back mountain town vibe.
Fruita has made a name for itself as a mountain biking mecca. The town attracts riders from all over the world to its famous trails like 18 Road and Kokopelli’s Loop. Located near the Colorado National Monument, Fruita also has beautiful red rock landscapes perfect for hiking and scenic drives. The town’s laid-back, outdoorsy vibe is on full display during the annual Fruita Fat Tire Festival, a multi-day celebration of mountain biking, live music, and local brews. Furthermore, locals and visitors can spend their days exploring the Dinosaur Journey Museum, which highlights the area’s prehistoric past.
Edwards, located in the heart of the Vail Valley, offers a quieter, more relaxed alternative to its bustling neighbors like Vail and Beaver Creek. This charming town is a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and fly-fishing along the Eagle River. Edwards’ Riverwalk shopping area is the town’s social hub, featuring boutique shops, restaurants, and outdoor concerts during the summer. The town’s proximity to world-class ski resorts makes it a great base for winter sports without the crowded resort scene.
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Rifle is a small town with big outdoor adventures, especially for hunters and nature enthusiasts. Situated along the Colorado River, Rifle is famous for its rugged landscapes. Rifle Falls State Park and Rifle Gap Reservoir are favorites for their opportunities for camping, hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The Rifle Mountain Park is a hidden gem for rock climbers, known for its challenging limestone routes. Each year, Rifle hosts the Garfield County Fair and Rodeo, where the community comes together for rodeo events, live music, and traditional fair fun.
Methodology: The median home sale price and average monthly rental data is from the Redfin Data Center.
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Serving homebuyers and sellers in the Denver area, Maya Lewis is a top real estate agent at Redfin with the latest market insights and local expertise. With years of experience as a real estate agent in the greater Denver area, Maya Lewis possesses a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the local market.
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