Big-city lights, river rafting and cowboy culture — Colorado has vibes for every type of group traveler.
Nicknamed the Centennial State, Colorado is perhaps most famous for its stunning Rocky Mountains. There’s no shortage of ways for groups to enjoy its beautiful outdoors. But in addition to adventure, travelers can revel in the area’s Wild West history, explore its metro museums and relax at distinctive hotels.
Popular Demand
U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum
At the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum in Downtown Colorado Springs, visitors can explore the history of Team USA and discover the hopes and dreams of future generations of athletes. Since opening in 2020, this 60,000-square-foot museum has welcomed guests to experience interactive displays and an incredible artifact collection, including Olympic torches and medals, within the museum’s 12 galleries. Groups can choose from a self-guided tour of the museum or opt for a 60-minute guided tour. The Flame Café welcomes groups and encourages large parties to preorder meals to avoid delays and enjoy the magnificent views of Pikes Peak and the Front Range.
Rocky Mountain Adventures
Rocky Mountain Adventures in Fort Collins offers kayak, paddleboarding and rafting classes along the Cache la Poudre River. Guided river trips feature thrilling rapids and stunning views of the mountains throughout northern Colorado. They range in difficulty from beginner to intermediate levels. Group classes focus on paddle sports skills with half- and full-day instruction. Group rates are available for 10 or more, and activities are customized to fit the group’s abilities.
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
Located 15 miles outside of Denver, Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is more than just a world-famous music venue. While most evenings are booked with live concerts amid the scenic surroundings, the park is also home to pristine hiking and biking trails. Groups can schedule guided tours that showcase the park’s educational areas, the Performer’s Hall of Fame, an informative visitor center, and a film sharing the park’s geologic and musical history. The Ship Rock Grille offers breathtaking views of the park’s 868 acres, situated at 6,450 feet.
Up and Coming
Museum of Art Fort Collins
At the Museum of Art Fort Collins, art lovers can experience contemporary art of the West. Built in 1911, the museum’s historic structure was once the city’s post office and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Five times a year, the museum galleries are transformed to highlight new, thought-provoking exhibits. Private group tours last 30–45 minutes. Lectures, panel discussions and art classes are held throughout the year, with groups welcome to participate. The museum’s conference center and separate education space are available for rent, along with access to the galleries.
Georgetown Loop Railroad
A ride on the Georgetown Loop Railroad provides visitors a unique look at the Colorado Rocky Mountains, along with an immersive history experience. The railroad takes passengers on a 70-mile roundtrip ride between two depots. It features a variety of train cars, including steam locomotives, diesel locomotives, coach cars and parlor cars. Riders can upgrade their experience to include an extended Lebanon mine tour or a gold-panning experience. Multiple daily departures are available from mid-March to October, and the railroad also operates holiday train rides in November. Group rates are available, along with full charter trains.
Fiske Planetarium
Located on the campus of University of Colorado Boulder, the Fiske Planetarium opened in 1975 with full-dome films; live talks with researchers and educators; musical shows; and late-night laser exhibitions. Today, the planetarium is powered by a state-of-the-art 8k projector for immersive, 360-degree shows. Groups can host private events with presentations from astronomers. Special discounts are available for groups of 16 or more. The planetarium’s program selection guide helps planners choose appropriate programming and topics for their needs.
Overnight Sensations
Glenwood Hot Springs Resort
Since 1888, Glenwood Hot Springs Resort has been home to the world’s largest natural hot springs pool. The resort, a AAA Three Diamond property, features 107 rooms with a complete renovation in 2011. In addition to access to the Hot Springs Pool, overnight guests can also enjoy full breakfast at the poolside grill and discounted athletic club passes. The large pool is home to 1,071,000 gallons of water from the Yampah spring. Overnight groups can explore the outdoors with a variety of activities, including whitewater rafting on the nearby Colorado River; exploring 50 miles of bike trails on eco-friendly e-bikes; or enjoying nearby Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park.
Strater Hotel
Located in historic downtown Durango, the Strater Hotel dates back to 1887. Many of the hotel’s 88 rooms are dedicated to local citizens and well-known guests. Western author Louis L’Amour wrote many of his novels in room 222. Legend says he enjoyed hearing the ragtime piano playing downstairs while he typed his stories with his children sleeping nearby. Visitors and overnight guests can learn more about the hotel’s history on self-guided audio tours. Guided tours are based on availability during the summer months. The hotel’s staff can coordinate area tours and on-site dining. A guest favorite is the Oak Room, featuring ornate stained-glass decor and working fireplace.
Memorable Meals
BarD Chuckwagon Suppers
Since 1969, BarD Chuckwagon Suppers has combined an Old West cowboy music show with chuckwagon suppers, making it one of the longest-running live music events in Durango. Dinner is served camp-style, with options including sliced roast beef, boneless chicken breast with barbecue sauce, and ribeye steak. Baked potatoes, baked beans, homemade biscuits and spice cake round out the meal. After supper, enjoy a concert by the Bar B Wranglers with old West cowboy songs and comedy. The venue opens two hours before supper for guests to explore the Western art gallery, browse the blacksmith store, enjoy hayrides and shop until the dinner bell rings.
The Fort Restaurant
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Fort Restaurant in Morrison opened in 1963 and serves as a replica of Bent’s Fort — an important part of Colorado history. The restaurant serves Western and Colorado delicacies like Rocky Mountain oysters, bison marrow bones, pickled quail eggs and buffalo sausage. Bison and beef steaks are also on the menu. Groups can enjoy a variety of menu options, along with entertainment options such as axe throwing, live music and falconry demonstrations. Outside, access to the fort grounds offers a unique dining experience under the stars. From October to April, the restaurant hosts the Tesoro’s Historical Lecture Series, featuring authors, professors and historians discussing history of the 19th century and the American Midwest.
