Telluride is a popular town offering waterfalls, mountains, and hiking trails. It’s also one of the best skiing places in the region.
Whether you are looking for indoor or outdoor adventure, Telluride won’t disappoint you.
Here is my list of the best things to do in Telluride for a memorable seasonal gateway.
1. Telluride Historical Museum
The Telluride Historical Museum is located at the top of N. Fir Street, and it’s a perfect place to learn about the history of this iconic American town.
You will find informative and extensive historical displays with a layout that’s easy to traverse.
Part of the history covers the gold mining times and the development of the ski resorts here.
You will also learn about the iconic people who worked in the gold mines.
Taking a historical tour of this museum is worth your two hours.
2. Telluride Mountain Village Gondola
A visit to Telluride can’t be considered complete without riding the Mountain Village Gondola.
This is one of America’s most outstanding public transportation options connecting the Mountain Village to Telluride.
Riding the gondola offers full stunning views of the San Juan Mountains and unleashes the beauty of Colorado.
Once at the Mountain Village, remember to shop and taste the delicious food in the restaurants.
The Gondola ride is one of the free things to do in Telluride.
3. Telluride Ski Resort
Telluride Ski Resort is one of the best visitor destinations in Telluride.
It boasts no less than 2,000 acres of skiing space, several mountains, and 19 lifts on its different trails.
This attraction is ideal for all age groups. You and the kids will enjoy breathtaking views while skiing along the rugged terrain.
Do not worry if you are new to skiing, as the resort also has a ski school where you can perfect your skills.
For more exciting experiences, you can spend time in the ground parks and bowling alleys.
This resort becomes a perfect plug for biking, rafting, and golfing during summer.
4. 221 South Oak
Reserve a table at the 221 South Oak restaurant and treat your taste buds to mouthwatering meals.
This is one of the most visited attractions by locals and visitors in Telluride.
Don’t allow the looks to deceive you because although this restaurant is small, the dining experience in this place is like no other.
Their menu accommodates everyone, including vegetarians, meat lovers, and those with dietary restrictions.
Come ready to enjoy a meal with your loved ones and satisfy your desire for good food in an intimate atmosphere.
5. Cornet Creek Falls
You can’t miss seeing the Cornet Creek Falls in Telluride during your vacation.
Natural and magnificent hiking trails accompany this waterfall. You can access it from North Aspen Street in a few minutes.
You’ll enjoy seeing the beauty of this waterfall from all sides while traversing through the rocky terrain.
Your experience will combine a brisk walking workout and a natural wonder.
Not far from Cornet Creek Falls, you can enjoy panoramic views of Telluride Ski Resort.
6. Ah Haa School for the Arts
If you’re interested in artwork, the Ah Haa School for the Arts is a must-visit place.
Since its establishment in 1991, this facility has been a haven of inspiration for many.
Come ready to enroll in art classes regardless of age and increase your artistic skills.
The series covered in the classes include painting, ceramics, sculpting, and visual arts.
7. Alta Lakes
If you want an outdoor exploration of Telluride, head south to the Alta Lakes and experience the beauty of nature.
The lakes include Upper Alta Lake, Lower Alta Lake, and Third Lake, all of which are situated in Uncompahgre National Forest, south of Telluride.
These lakes offer room for endless outdoor fun during summer and spring.
Go fishing on a lazy summer afternoon, or bring your camping gear. You will love the fully equipped camping spots in this area.
The other activities to enjoy include bicycling, canoeing, and horseback riding.
8. Telluride Town Park
Telluride Town Park is a fun-filled place for visitors. The park sits on 36 acres of land and offers recreational activities for all seasons.
It is also home to Telluride’s music festivals and sporting events.
The amenities available in the park include a swimming pool, baseball fields, a sand volleyball court, a tennis court, and a fishing pond.
Telluride Town Park also features a dog park, a barbeque pit, picnic areas, a golf course, and an onsite campground.
There is also a playground so the younger kids won’t feel left out.
9. Black Bear Pass
Black Bear Pass is a mountain trail suitable for those looking for thrilling outdoor experiences. Try it out if you have a daring heart and want to enjoy a spectacular view of Telluride.
The pass offers an unmatchable experience when traversing high mountains on a jeep.
Navigating the pass is tricky, so it’s strictly open from late summer to early fall.
If you are an avid hiker, the Black Bear Pass is also a great place for hiking. However, be careful as you hike because the pass is inhabited by glacier bears, black bears, and Kermode bears.
No matter how challenging the pass is, expect to have a feeling of triumph once you accept the challenge.
10. Telluride Outfitters
Enjoy guided adventure services from Telluride Outfitters and easily tour the town and its nearby communities.
This touring agency has been offering visitors all-year-round tours allowing them to learn almost everything about Telluride.
Enjoy a comfortable, educational, fun, and safe outdoor experience with your loved ones and participate in activities like paddleboarding, fly fishing, mountain biking, RZR tours, and ATV riding.
Most of the agency’s tours cover areas like Dunton Hot Springs, Alta Lakes, and Barlow Creek.
The quality services and gear the outfitters provide are worth your money and time.
11. Main Street
Main Street in Telluride is incredibly unique, as it’s primarily a hub for shoppers and those looking for dining experiences.
This gem has grown to boast the area’s best restaurants, wine bars, cafes, bakeries, and coffee shops.
Besides having all these, the street is also scenic, with amazing views from all sides, and it’s full of entertainment to boot.
If you are lucky, you may spot some elks crossing from downtown. Parking may be a challenge as the day unfolds, so be early.
12. San Juan Skyway
An outdoor getaway is more interesting if it includes some scenic spots.
You should consider the San Juan Skyway because it offers some of the best scenic views in America.
Also known as the “road to the sky,” this skyway is among the top places in Telluride, with spectacular views of the San Juan Mountains, especially from the sides.
13. Michael D. Palm Theatre
Theatrical performances complete a visit to a new place, so you should plan to visit the Michael D. Palm Theatre.
This premier art venue in Telluride has attracted tourists from different places for many years.
It is fully equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and facilities so expect quality live performances.
Depending on the season, you can also enjoy Telluride events like the Telluride Film Festival, Telluride Jazz Celebration, and Telluride Chamber Music Festivals.
The Michael D. Palm Theatre is one of the best affordable things to do in Telluride, Colorado.
14. Mountain Lodge Telluride
Mountain Lodge Telluride is a modern resort boasting quality amenities and facilities.
The lodge is nestled within the mountainous surroundings of San Juan, exuding a rustic charm that translates to serenity and comfort.
This luxurious resort boasts private log cabins, beautiful guestrooms, and suites with a warm western design.
Enjoy magnificent views with very high peaks and pristine ski terrain from your balcony.
The resort’s amenities include a swimming pool, free shuttles to Telluride Mountain, and a fitness center.
You can also celebrate unique family events like birthdays and anniversaries in this lodge.
The staff will help you with the planning.
15. Trout Lake
Trout Lake is another perfect place for outdoor adventure in Telluride, thanks to its expansive landscape.
The lake is located on the southern Telluride, and it is one of Colorado’s most scenic and famous alpine lakes and an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
You have many outdoor activities to sample, including boating, skiing, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and hiking.