While Colorado might not be the first place that comes to mind for roller coasters and water parks, the state offers a surprising array of theme park adventures that cater to both visitors and locals.
In addition to traditional amusement parks, Colorado boasts attractions such as alpine slides, aerial parks, and caves that offer thrilling experiences.
The state provides an abundance of options for those seeking excitement, whether it’s soaring through the air on a zip line, competing in go-kart races, or enjoying a leisurely game of miniature golf. With a wide range of activities available, there’s something thrilling for every member of the family to enjoy in Colorado.
Let’s look at some of them.
Caving
If you like spelunking, Colorado offers opportunities year-round. Caves maintain relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year, making them accessible regardless of the season.
Some notable options include:
- Cave of the Winds in Colorado Springs – This destination provides a distinctive lantern-guided tour that offers a unique and immersive experience.
- Glenwood Caverns in Glenwood Springs – This theme park features Colorado’s largest show cave, allowing visitors to explore its underground wonders and enjoy various attractions.
Whether you’re intrigued by the subterranean world or seeking an adventure underground, these cave experiences offer fascinating insights into Colorado’s geological marvels and are available for exploration throughout the year.
Theme Parks
The Denver metropolitan area boasts the highest concentration of amusement parks in Colorado, offering visitors a range of options. This region is home to two water parks and three theme parks, providing diverse entertainment choices.
Interestingly, downtown Denver is home to Elitch Gardens, which encompasses both a water park and the state’s largest amusement park. Additionally, the historic Lakeside amusement park has been captivating visitors in West Denver since 1908.
A particularly distinctive theme park in the Centennial State is nestled beneath the towering presence of Pikes Peak in Cascade.
This unique park, known as the North Pole, Home of Santa’s Workshop, is themed around Christmas and operates annually from mid-May to Christmas Eve, offering a charming and festive experience for visitors of all ages.
Ski Resorts
As the snow gives way to warmer weather on the ski slopes, many ski resorts undergo a remarkable transformation into vibrant summer adventure parks.
Among the attractions, alpine slides take center stage at destinations like Breckenridge, Durango, Steamboat Springs, and Winter Park. Additionally, several resorts transition into bike parks, providing exhilarating mountain biking opportunities for enthusiasts seeking an outdoor thrill.