utumn is an amazing season here in Colorado, when the aspen leaves blaze yellow and an exhilarating crispness permeates the air. Cozy sweaters replace short-sleeve shirts, iced coffee is traded in for piping hot cups of cocoa, and the fireplace once again becomes the most popular place in the house for relaxing and visiting with friends. But don’t worry, cooling temperatures don’t impede residents or visitors from having fun throughout the Front Range.
In fact, some might argue that fall is the perfect time to experience some of the best adventures that Colorado has to offer. There are so many exciting autumn activities to partake in – from Boulder, to Denver, to Colorado Springs and beyond. Whether you’re a tourist visiting from out of state or a local looking for seasonal outings close to home, the possibilities are infinite. Here are six ways to enjoy this fall to the fullest.
utumn is an amazing season here in Colorado, when the aspen leaves blaze yellow and an exhilarating crispness permeates the air. Cozy sweaters replace short-sleeve shirts, iced coffee is traded in for piping hot cups of cocoa, and the fireplace once again becomes the most popular place in the house for relaxing and visiting with friends. But don’t worry, cooling temperatures don’t impede residents or visitors from having fun throughout the Front Range.
In fact, some might argue that fall is the perfect time to experience some of the best adventures that Colorado has to offer. There are so many exciting autumn activities to partake in – from Boulder, to Denver, to Colorado Springs and beyond. Whether you’re a tourist visiting from out of state or a local looking for seasonal outings close to home, the possibilities are infinite. Here are six ways to enjoy this fall to the fullest.
Visit SunWater Spa in Manitou Springs, which offers a variety of cedar-sided, mineral water soaking tubs as well as spa treatments and yoga. Located at the foot of Pikes Peak, SunWater is a designated “whisper zone,” ensuring that it remains an oasis of serenity and peace for all.
Anderson Farms in Erie is home to the state’s longest-running corn maze, boasting more than eight miles of intricate trails on its 25-acre plot. Patrons can also visit the farm’s 15-acre sunflower field, take a wagon ride to the pumpkin patch, or step into a scene from a zombie movie by signing up for the Zombie Paintball Hunt. There is so much to do at this lovely farm that you might even want to visit twice.
The Colorado Kids Ranch in Monument is a family-run farm located a mere 35 minutes from South Denver and 20 minutes from Colorado Springs. Kiddos can enjoy rides on Queen the pony, and can pet goats, sheep, llamas, and alpacas at the ranch’s zoo. Gourd launching, slides, and outdoor laser tag are just a few of the other attractions available for seasonal fun.
Photo by Denver Botanic GardensCheck out Ya Ya Farm & Orchard’s Apple Fest in Longmont, where you can sip spiced apple cider all October long. In addition to unlimited hayrides, visitors will enjoy live bluegrass music while munching on delicious Nordy’s Barbeque, farm-fresh apples, and apple cider donuts.
Pick a pumpkin at Chatfield Farms’ Pumpkin Fest in Littleton. Hosted by the Denver Botanic Gardens, the pumpkin festival is a longstanding tradition in these parts. The cost of admission includes access to the 10-acre pumpkin patch and family activity area. Be sure to bring a wagon to transport all the spectacular pumpkins you’ll find here!
The 10th annual Día de los Muertos Celebration will take place at the Denver Botanic Gardens’ York Street location on November 6th. This year, the festival will include both on-site and virtual components, and will feature colorful illuminated sculptures by Mexican artists Ruben Miguel Castillo and Oscar Becerra.
Visit one of Upslope Brewery’s taprooms in Boulder to sample their selection of Colorado – inspired craft beers as well as seasonal libations. Try the aptly named Pumpkin Ale or Oatmeal Stout for fall flavor in every sip.
Head up to Evergreen Brewery – located in the gorgeous town of Evergreen, of course – to enjoy refreshing beverages and good eats outside of the city. Here you’ll find a wide range of brews on tap, each with a name you won’t forget, like the Orange You Glad You Let That Mango citrus sour, the Wheat Like to Pardi American wheat ale, and the #Basic blue raspberry hard seltzer.
Make an afternoon of taste-testing some of Denver’s best beers on the Denver Microbrewery Tour. This top-rated walking tour is open to small groups and can be customized to any of Denver’s neighborhoods, although LoDo and RiNo are two of the most popular destinations for craft beer lovers.
Photo by Upslope Brewery
To accommodate the differing comfort levels of its audiences, the Denver Center for Performing Arts has both live and virtual events scheduled for your viewing pleasure. Get dressed up and enjoy a night out at the ballet, symphony, or theatre in Denver this season.
Take in a performance from Colorado Ballet at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House for an evening of entertainment and delight. Enjoy classic ballets such as Giselle, or the holiday favorite, The Nutcracker.
Savor the sounds of the Colorado Symphony at an in-person concert or via virtual viewing portals. There are performances taking place nearly every weekend for music-lovers to enjoy. Visit their website to purchase a ticket and see who will take the stage next.
Take in views of the colorful patchwork of changing leaves from Pikes Peak. The top of this famous 14er can be reached by hiking, biking, or driving. Once you reach the peak, you are greeted by the yellows and oranges that make this season so special.
Stroll through Mapleton Hill, a historic neighborhood in Boulder, to be surrounded by fall foliage. This area is just a short walk from the shopping and restaurants on Pearl Street, so grab a hot cocoa or cider and meander down the streets of Mapleton Hill under a rainbow of colorful leaves.
Have an authentic Wild West experience by driving the Lariat Loop Scenic Byway – 40 miles of winding roads cutting through pristine pine forests in Golden, Evergreen, and Morrison. The loop circles past historic sites such as Buffalo Bill’s Grave and Museum, Lookout Mountain Nature Center, and Morrison’s stunning Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre.
Colorado may be the 38th state, but it’s first in terms of natural beauty, amazing weather, and a rich history that has a timeless allure. Snap a picture of you and your loved ones partaking in these fun fall activities and share it on social media with #TheLifeYouLove to show off your autumn adventures!
By LIV Sotheby’s International Realty
