Colorado is the birthplace of adventure tourism, home to iconic destinations like Pikes Peak and the Maroon Bells, and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Historically, Colorado played a pivotal role during the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush of 1858–1862, which spurred significant westward expansion. The subsequent Colorado Silver Boom further cemented its status as a mining powerhouse. Achieving statehood in 1876, precisely a century after the Declaration of Independence, Colorado earned the nickname the “Centennial State.” Scattered across the state are historic towns that don’t just preserve the past; they let you experience it. Think Victorian main streets, gold mines you can walk through, and railroads still chugging through mountain passes. We’re taking you off the beaten path to ten of Colorado’s most remarkable historic towns. Each one is a destination, a story, and a memory waiting to happen. Let’s explore!
1. Georgetown
Georgetown, established in 1859 during the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush, is a historic town nestled in the Rockies. It blossomed into a prominent silver mining hub, earning the moniker “Silver Queen of Colorado.”
Today, it forms part of the Georgetown–Silver Plume National Historic Landmark District, showcasing well-preserved Victorian architecture and rich mining heritage.
You can explore the Georgetown Loop Railroad, a restored narrow-gauge railway offering scenic rides between Georgetown and Silver Plume, complete with guided tours of the historic Lebanon Silver Mine.
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The Hotel de Paris Museum, once a luxurious 19th-century inn, provides insights into the town’s opulent past. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway presents breathtaking mountain vistas and is renowned for its spectacular autumn colors during aspen color change from September 10 through October 10 each year.
Additionally, the Alpine Hose No. 2 Firefighter Museum offers a glimpse into the town’s firefighting history. Strolling through downtown Georgetown reveals charming shops, art galleries, and eateries housed in historic buildings.
2. Central City
Founded in 1859, Central City is a historic town that played a pivotal role in Colorado’s gold rush. Known as the “Richest Square Mile on Earth,” it quickly became a hub for mining and commerce, attracting people from all over the country.
One of the town’s highlights is the Central City Opera House, a cultural landmark built by miners in 1878. It remains operational today, hosting an annual summer festival. For those interested in delving deeper into the town’s mining history, the Gilpin History Museum features exhibits that showcase artifacts and stories from the 19th century.
Central City also offers a unique blend of preserved Victorian architecture and modern gaming venues, with casinos occupying many of the original buildings. Nature lovers can enjoy nearby hiking trails or take a scenic drive on the Central City Parkway, which provides stunning mountain views.
3. Leadville
Leadville was founded in 1877 and is the highest incorporated city in the United States, situated at an elevation of 10,152 feet.
The National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum, often referred to as the “Smithsonian of the Rockies,” provides an in-depth look into the mining industry’s history and its significance to the region.
For a scenic experience, the Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad offers train rides through the breathtaking Rocky Mountains, showcasing the area’s natural beauty and mining history.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Mineral Belt National Recreation Trail, an 11.6-mile loop around Leadville that passes through historic mining districts, offering opportunities for biking, walking, and, in winter, Nordic skiing.
Additionally, the Top of the Rockies National Scenic Byway provides stunning views of Colorado’s highest peaks, including Mount Elbert and Mount Massive, both accessible from trailheads near Leadville.
Visitors can also take a historic walking tour of downtown Leadville, where 70 square blocks have been designated a National Historic Landmark, featuring notable structures such as the Healy House, Heritage Museum, Delaware Hotel, and Tabor Home.
4. Crested Butte
This former coal mining town that was founded in 1880 has transformed into a vibrant destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history aficionados. It’s also a great historic town if you’re looking to retire in Colorado.
The town’s rich past is preserved within the Crested Butte National Historic District, where visitors can explore well-maintained false-front buildings that harken back to its mining days.
For those interested in delving deeper into local history, the Crested Butte Museum offers exhibits detailing the area’s evolution from a mining hub to a recreational haven.
The Crested Butte Mountain Resort provides skiing opportunities in the winter and mountain biking trails during the summer months.
Additionally, the town is renowned for its wildflower displays, earning it the nickname “Wildflower Capital of Colorado.”
Those who are visiting can also enjoy the Crested Butte Adventure Park, which offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including a bungee jump trampoline and rock climbing wall.
5. Silverton
Silverton, founded in 1874, is a historic mining town set amidst the majestic San Juan Mountains. Once a booming center during Colorado’s silver mining era, the town has preserved its heritage while becoming a haven for history enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. It’s also famous for being one of the most charming historic ski towns in the US.
A key attraction is the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a historic train that has operated for over a century, offering scenic rides through breathtaking mountain landscapes. Visitors can also explore the Old Hundred Gold Mine, an underground tour that provides a firsthand look at the life of a miner during the late 19th century. The Mayflower Gold Mill, a National Historic Landmark, showcases the intricate processes of mining and milling that shaped the region’s economy.
For nature lovers, the Ice Lakes Trail offers an exhilarating hike to stunning alpine lakes, while the Million Dollar Highway provides a spectacular scenic drive connecting Silverton to nearby Ouray. Those interested in cultural heritage can visit the Christ of the Mines Shrine or the San Juan County Historical Society for an in-depth look at Silverton’s past.
6. Durango
Established in 1880 by the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad, Durango has evolved from a mining hub into a vibrant city rich with history and culture.
A cornerstone of Durango’s heritage is the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a National Historic Landmark that has been in continuous operation since 1881. This historic train offers scenic journeys through the San Juan Mountains, providing passengers with a glimpse into the region’s rich mining past.
The city’s downtown area is renowned for its well-preserved Victorian architecture. Notable establishments include the Strater Hotel, referred to as Durango’s Living History Museum, which has been a staple since 1887.
Durango’s history extends further back, with the region once inhabited by the Ancestral Puebloans over 2,500 years ago. Nearby archaeological sites, such as Mesa Verde National Park, offer insights into these ancient civilizations.
For those interested in more recent history, the Animas Museum provides exhibits detailing Durango’s development from a railroad town to a modern city.
7. Ouray
Ouray, often referred to as the “Switzerland of America,” is a picturesque town nestled in the San Juan Mountains. Established in the late 19th century, Ouray boasts a rich history deeply rooted in Colorado’s mining heritage.
A unique attraction in Ouray is the Ouray Alchemist Museum, Colorado’s largest pharmacy museum. You will have the chance to explore exceptionally restored fixtures gathered from historic Colorado mining towns and artifacts dating back to the 16th century and even 350 BC.
For those interested in performing arts, the Wright Opera House, built in the late 1800s, offers a historic venue for live performances, providing a glimpse into the town’s cultural past.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Ouray Perimeter Trail, a 5.6-mile loop offering panoramic views of waterfalls and canyons, showcasing the town’s natural beauty.
Additionally, the Ouray County Historical Museum, housed in the historic St. Joseph’s Miners’ Hospital, offers exhibits detailing the area’s rich history, including mining, ranching, and railroad artifacts.
8. Manitou Springs
Nestled at the base of Pikes Peak, Manitou Springs has long been celebrated for its mineral springs, which were considered sacred by Native American tribes for their healing properties.
The town was established in 1872, and one of its most notable attractions is the Manitou Cliff Dwellings, a museum featuring replica Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings. Established in 1907, these structures offer visitors a glimpse into the architectural styles of the ancient Pueblo peoples.
The Miramont Castle, built in 1895, is another significant landmark. This Victorian-era castle showcases a variety of architectural styles and houses a museum that delves into the region’s history.
If you want to learn about Manitou Springs’ unique geology, the Cave of the Winds offers guided tours through a complex of caves, providing insights into the area’s natural history.
You can also visit the Manitou Springs Heritage Center, which offers exhibits on the town’s history, including its early days as a health resort and its development over the years.
The town’s historic district is home to numerous art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, all set against the backdrop of its charming, well-preserved architecture. Additionally, the nearby Garden of the Gods park features stunning red rock formations and offers opportunities for hiking and rock climbing.
9. Cripple Creek
Cripple Creek was founded in 1892 during the last major gold rush in the United States. Located in the Pikes Peak region, the town quickly became a hub for mining, with more than 500 mines producing over $300 million in gold by the early 20th century. Today, Cripple Creek remains a key destination for those interested in Colorado’s mining history.
The Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine offers guided tours that take visitors 1,000 feet underground to see firsthand how miners worked. The Cripple Creek District Museum provides additional context with artifacts, photographs, and exhibits housed in historic buildings that were central to the town’s development.
The Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad offers a scenic ride through historic mining areas, giving visitors a closer look at the remnants of the town’s industrial past. Another unique feature is the Cripple Creek Donkeys, a herd that freely roams the town, descended from animals once used in the mines.
Modern additions, such as casinos and restored venues like the Butte Theater, provide entertainment while maintaining the town’s historical character.
10. Fairplay
Unlike many boomtowns that quickly vanished, Fairplay established itself as a lasting center of mining activity in Park County. Situated at nearly 10,000 feet, this small town became a key destination for prospectors looking to strike it rich in the surrounding South Park Valley. Founded in 1859 during the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush, Fairplay emerged as a hub for those seeking fortunes in gold and other valuable minerals.
Today, Fairplay’s history is preserved and celebrated in South Park City, an open-air museum that authentically recreates a 19th-century mining town. With over 40 restored buildings and thousands of artifacts, it offers visitors a chance to step directly into the past, exploring life as it was during Colorado’s gold rush era.
The town’s heritage comes to life every summer during the annual Burro Days Festival, a unique event featuring burro races, parades, and community activities that pay tribute to the donkeys that supported miners during the gold rush.
Fairplay’s location also makes it a gateway to Colorado’s natural beauty. Nearby Kenosha Pass is a favorite destination for hikers and photographers, especially during the fall when its aspen groves burst into vibrant color.
