40 Best Stops Between San Jose del Cabo and Denver
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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedMar 31, 2023
How long is the drive from San Jose del Cabo to Denver?
The direct drive from San Jose del Cabo to Denver is 1,669 mi (2,685 km), and should have a drive time of 1 day 8 hrs in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from San Jose del Cabo to Denver, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Colorado Springs, Tucson, Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Taos, Tombstone, La Paz, El Paso, Canon City, and Las Cruces, as well as top places to visit like Mesilla Plaza and White Sands National Park, or the ever-popular Scenic Drive Park East Rest Stop.
The top cities between San Jose del Cabo and Denver are Colorado Springs, Tucson, Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Taos, Tombstone, La Paz, El Paso, Canon City, and Las Cruces. Colorado Springs is the most popular city on the route. It's 32 hours from San Jose del Cabo and 1 hour from Denver.
La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur, is a charming Mexican city known for its picturesque Malecón promenade and beautiful beaches. The city center boasts the impressive Nuestra Señora de La Paz Cathedral and the shady Velasco Garden. Visitors can embark on whale watching trips from nearby towns like Puerto San Carlos and Puerto Adolfo Lopez Mateos, offering opportunities to see these majestic creatures up close.
Tucson, located in Pima County, Arizona, serves as the county seat and is recognized for being the home of the University of Arizona. It holds the distinction of being Arizona's second largest city with a current population count of 542,629 according to 2020 US Census data. Additionally, its metropolitan statistical area boasts a larger population figure at 1,043,433 residents.
98% as popular as Colorado Springs
7 minutes off the main route, 60% of way to Denver
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Tombstone, located in the southeastern region of Arizona, is renowned for its rich Wild West history. The Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park houses several exhibits, including a replicated gallows. Allen Street is home to the O.K Corral outdoor theater that recreates cowboy gunfights from 1881. Local lore claims that ghostly apparitions frequent Bird Cage Theatre pockmarked with bullet holes.
20% as popular as Colorado Springs
17 minutes off the main route, 61% of way to Denver
El Paso, a vibrant city in Texas, is known for its rich cultural heritage and lively atmosphere. With a population of over 678,000 people, it stands as one of the most populous cities in the United States. The city boasts a diverse range of attractions, including charming bars where locals gather to enjoy pool tables and classic barstools.
11% as popular as Colorado Springs
45 minutes off the main route, 70% of way to Denver
Situated on the outskirts of the Chihuahuan Desert, Las Cruces is a city in New Mexico that boasts several attractions for visitors. The interactive New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum showcases livestock and gardens, while Mesilla Valley Bosque State Park offers trails and birdlife along the Rio Grande. The Museum of Nature and Science features hands-on displays and desert animals, while the Railroad Museum explores local railway history with model trains.
7% as popular as Colorado Springs
6 minutes off the main route, 71% of way to Denver
I'll never travel to Denver without this trip planner again
The biggest city in New Mexico, Albuquerque, is located in the arid desert. Its contemporary downtown area contrasts with Old Town Albuquerque, which dates back to its establishment as a Spanish colony in 1706. Old Town comprises of numerous historic adobe structures including San Felipe de Neri Church and five museums featuring Native American handicrafts for sale. The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center nearby traces the history of tribal communities in the region.
70% as popular as Colorado Springs
2 minutes off the main route, 80% of way to Denver
Situated in the foothills of Sangre de Cristo, Santa Fe is the capital of New Mexico and is renowned for its creative arts scene and Pueblo-style architecture. Originally established as a Spanish colony in 1610, the city's heart lies at its traditional Plaza which is surrounded by a historic district with crooked streets that wind past adobe landmarks such as the Palace of Governors. The latter now serves as the New Mexico History Museum.
87% as popular as Colorado Springs
8 minutes off the main route, 83% of way to Denver
Taos is a town situated in the northern part of New Mexico that's surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The town is renowned for its historic adobe buildings, including Taos Pueblo, a multistory adobe complex which has been inhabited by Native Americans for centuries. In addition to its cultural significance, Taos is also recognized as an artist colony with numerous galleries and museums that showcase regional artwork.
32% as popular as Colorado Springs
49 minutes off the main route, 84% of way to Denver
Cañon City is a home rule municipality that is the county seat and the most populous municipality of Fremont County, Colorado, United States. The city population was 17,141 at the 2020 United States Census. Wikipedia.
11% as popular as Colorado Springs
45 minutes off the main route, 93% of way to Denver
Colorado Springs is a city situated at the eastern base of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, with an elevation of 6,035 ft. It is close to Pikes Peak, known for its hiking trails and cog railway leading to its summit at 14,114 ft. The Garden of the Gods park in the city showcases stunning red-sandstone formations and scenic mountain views.
Most popular city on this route
2 minutes off the main route, 96% of way to Denver
Best stops along San Jose del Cabo to Denver drive
The top stops along the way from San Jose del Cabo to Denver (with short detours) are Garden of the Gods, Sandia Peak Tramway, and Old Town. Other popular stops include Inn & Spa at Loretto, White Sands National Park, and Rio Grande Gorge Bridge.
Beautiful views. You can see Mexico on the other side. Its was something new for us we were excited. We did need to go all the way to the top. It was cold and windy. If you look at the pictures where you see the X in red. Thats a placita in Mexico.
Wendy BoriDomi — Google review
Excellent views of El Paso and across the border to Juárez
Carlos Mateo — Google review
There are about 3 rest stops on that scenic drive .
Jessy Vargas — Google review
Excellent views but the police academy above was shooting the entire time so don't come here for peace and quiet
Chris Sosa — Google review
Great place and view of El Paso, Texas and sister city Ciudad Juarez, Mexico
Jonathan Maltos — Google review
Best view of El Paso, TX and Juarez, Mexico.
Pancham Patel — Google review
Love this place beautiful scene we have in El Paso, Tx
Goodmorning Happy Labor Day 🌞🇨🇱🇺🇸
Thelma Solis — Google review
No parking during the weekends. El Paso City leaders can do better since they up on our taxes. What a shame this is a city staple for tourist to see our picturesque mountains.
Beautiful area and at the plaza, theres a vibrant music playing, people selling jewerly and stuff and friendly as well...what a lovely day when i was there.. town has some restaurants to eat too, there are olso shop to check for souvenirs and of cors the beautiful church there.. hope i can stay longer😊
**Parking a bit of hard to find in the area on weekend tho*
Rv_life_Road_Travel_ Minimalist (Aika) — Google review
Beautiful little quick educational stop for the kids especially when your nick names Billy the kid lol
William Iverson — Google review
Such a great spot to hang out. The atmosphere is fantastic and there are tons of shops around the plaza to visit. Also appreciate the shade and benches to sit while taking a break, especially in this heat.
Laro Pilartes — Google review
We spent a couple of hours here on a Sunday morning before everything started. Church service was in progress and they had loud speaking broadcasting the service into the plaza where people can participate outdoor. Walked around the plaza filled with history. Wish we had more time to enjoy a meal at one of those restaurants there.
Rebecca Chiu — Google review
Nice historic plaza. Lots of arts and crafts and tourist stuff. The Basilica should not be missed. Several good eating places
Doug Echols — Google review
We were traveling and visited the farmers / flea market on a Sunday morning in mid February.
Vendors still setting up hour after opening. Low season? The big impact was churchie choir loud enough I couldn't have a conversation with a vendor. Parking is tough.
John Berry — Google review
Wonderful place. You can walk and enjoy the nice stores are around and go to one of the nice restaurants are there La Posta, Double Eagle...
Araceli Conner — Google review
Central plaza with a very small town feel. Unique stores and gift shops. Great market in the center on Sunday. Church bells ringing at the Basilica are beautiful.
Carolynn Yothers — Google review
Wonderful historical place to visit.
Amy R. Prieto — Google review
Nice historical area where you can learn about the history of the southwest and how New Mexico became part of the US. The plaza is part of a Historic District and is a national historic landmark. It's a nice spot to sit and relax. Billy the Kid was put on trial and sentenced to hang at the old County Courthouse which is now the corner gift shop.
The Historic District is filled with tourist shops that includes a book store, chocolate shop, pecan store, and other specialty shops. There are many restaurants and a couple of wineries. Love the quaint architecture of the area. The Basilica of San Albino is across from the plaza and has been on existence since 1851.
Elizabeth Lee — Google review
Great spot to spend a day out by just walking around this historic plaza, it has different types of stores, restaurants, cafes, sweets, tea, gift shops, bookstore, gallery.... U may be able to find some really nice and unique items.
Phoenix — Google review
Had some time to spend so I went to Old Mesilla. I got some tea at the tea shop and went to confession and mass at the old church. I highly recommend both.
I visited the parish bookstore and found they have a grotto in back with a statue of Mary, and they are installing a colundarium next to the grotto.
The area is pleasent to walk around with plenty of shops and restaurants. Across the main road is a place that sells dried 🌶 among other things. I didn't stop there today and don't remember the name, unfortunately. But the red chilli sauce we made from their chillies turned out very well. The building looks like it's out of the old west complete with dirt floors.
Gary Samaniego — Google review
The Mesilla Plaza is always open, beautiful, and charming. We were there for the Christmas Tree lighting. The visitor benches were out and filling with happy families. One of the local businesses was serving cookies and hot chocolate.
Lou Ellen Kay — Google review
Cool historical spot with some cute shops. There is local music and events as well on occasion. Pretty for some quick photos and visit.
White Sands National Park is a vast area of 145,344 acres that showcases an extraordinary landscape dominated by rare gypsum sand dunes. These stunning and undulating dunes spread throughout the Tularosa Basin which gives them a dreamlike appearance. A visit to this park is essential for photographers interested in landscapes because its beauty is unmatched. The best time to witness the dazzling white sands is during sunrise or sunset as it enhances their magical quality.
Loved this experience!!! We got there way too late in the day, should have been there early! Busiest and smallest NP I’ve been to, but well worth it. The dunes are unlike anything I’ve experienced and so much better than pictures can describe. Easy to get lost, so be careful! Take lots of water and definitely sun screen and hats.
MiKayla Thomas — Google review
I've driven past White Sands National Park multiple times on road trips from Arizona to Texas but I had never stopped in before. Boy was I missing out! This is one of the most beautiful natural places I've ever visited! I went in the evening around 7 pm and stayed until closing at 9 pm. The sunset, clouds in the sky and white dunes that stretched on for miles was absolutely stunning. I drove back into the park approximately 6 miles as the ranger recommended that it was the best area for sand dune sledding. My kids had so much fun! There is plenty of parking, shaded picnic areas, and restrooms. If you have an America the Beautiful pass you can get into the park for free. The visitor center has gifts, snacks, restrooms and a museum. On certain evenings there are free tours of the lake, sunset strolls and full moon activities. Check the website for hours because they do vary by season and whether or not it's a full moon. The sand does not stick everywhere on your body like beach sand, it's very dry, soft, and clean. Enjoy!
Jessica James — Google review
You will love exploring the dunes. Although you might consider it small for a national park, its uniqueness lies in its natural beauty. On the day we visited, it was fairly cloudy, but the scene was still breathtaking, with a dramatic landscape and exceptionally beautiful clouds. Walking through the dunes was a fun experience, although you may end up with a lot of sand in your shoes. However, you will certainly enjoy it because the sand is incredibly soft and smooth. It's definitely worth dedicating half a day to this adventure!
Yohi Sivakumaran — Google review
Definitely a must see. Came late evening and stayed for the sunset. The area is so peaceful and beautiful. Great place to unwind, relax, and enjoy a small piece of creation. We came with a fairly large group. Some relaxed in the sand, others played football, and yet others hiked around. Come an see for yourself... you'll be glad you did.
Keith Carey — Google review
White Sands National Park was amazing! You can go sledding down the dunes, there's a gift shop, public restrooms, and again if you are traveling to several National parks or monuments, save some money and purchase the America the beautiful park pass online prior to going. (Purchase a few weeks ahead of time to allow time for pass to arrive) this park was a little out of the way for us, but I am so glad we did it, it was amazing to see and feel this sand. There are picnic tables you can eat at, but you'll have to bring in your own food and drink. Definitely worth visiting if you're in New Mexico.
The Fab Forty — Google review
White Sands National Park is a must-visit, but it’s important to note some key details before you go. First and foremost, there’s a $25 entrance fee for each vehicle entering the park. However, this pass can be used for up to 7 days, which makes it a reasonable deal.
As you venture further into the park, the landscape becomes increasingly surreal, with vast expanses of brilliant white sand dunes stretching out before you. Don’t let the initial, more barren sections of the park discourage you; the real beauty lies deeper within.
Be sure to pack sunscreen because you’ll certainly get a sun tan here. Additionally, bring your own water as there are no water stations to refill along the way.
There’s a small gift shop at the park’s entrance where you can buy sleds to enjoy sand dune sledding, a popular activity here. However, I’d recommend bringing your own if you can, as things in these kinds of shops can sometimes be a bit overpriced.
White Sands National Park is a fantastic place to take stunning photos and witness the unique beauty of New Mexico. The park offers several restroom facilities throughout, and you’ll find plenty of parking available in different sections of the park. It’s definitely a remarkable and photogenic destination worth visiting.
Vanessa Benavides — Google review
Beautiful national park. The sand stays cool and there are so many places to go sledding. Go in the morning if you can, once it gets towards the afternoons, the roads past the boardwalk get very muddy and hard to drive through.
Bring a sled and wax if you can, otherwise it is $25 for the sled (you get $5 back in store credit if you return it), and the wax is about $3.
The giftshop is very reasonably priced.
Vanessa — Google review
Loved it, returned to visit with family after 20 plus years. Many great improvements. Well maintained restroom facilities and shaded picnic tables. Better trails, asphalted entryway. Visitors Center very informative. Purchased Access Pass at Dunes Gate, great deal for the price. Plus Access to other locations included.
Overall had a great time. Beautiful sunset over the distant mountains.
Was planning to camp out but sites are currently unavailable due to upgrades. Would definitely recommend to all.
Damian Romero — Google review
This should be a must see for everyone! It is like no other thing no matter how many deserts or sand dunes you see nothing is quite like White sands as it is granite and not sand it's cold to the touch and it doesn't stick to you in the same way that sand does such a unique and incredible experience. I also recommend going when there are tours available and if you're going when there's not a lot of tours you should still definitely go on the sunset stroll it's very informational and interesting I haven't been to White sands in about 10 years and it was such a nice refresher so glad I went the first time and now and I hope to go back in the future!!
Jack Cairborne — Google review
Such a beautiful day to spend at the park. Very little traffic, and once you go deeper down the drive just beautiful white dunes as far as you can see. Many spots to pull off, picnic tables for you to be able to enjoy lunch or snack. Spots for trailers or campers. At the beginning their is a nice informational spot talking about the wildlife there as well. Overall very cool spot to check out!
Maria Foster — Google review
This park is a MUST! It is such a unique and gorgeous place. Definitely take a sled (not the saucer type, it didn’t seem to work as well). You don’t need shoes because the sand is cool. The sunsets are beautiful! There are plenty of places to park your car inside the park so keep driving and you can avoid a lot of people and have your own private dune!
Tara Housh — Google review
What a beautiful place to check out the sand is amazing!! My feet were not hot touching that sand. It’s not that long of a walk and it’s a beautiful scenic drive highly highly recommend everyone seeing it and then check out the gift shop because they’ve got some excellent choices for memories or knickknacks, or take them gifts .
Summer V — Google review
I love this national park and visited multiple times. It’s such a great place to slide down the sand dunes and visit with the family! They also provide free tours in the evening to explain how the sand dunes were created and the wildlife.
Sarah — Google review
This was one of our stops on our road trip out west. We visited both Carlsbad NP and White Sands in the same day. Best viewed in the late afternoon- it was honestly the most incredible sunset I’ve ever seen.
MaryClare Labbe — Google review
An excellent place to spend an afternoon, absolutely otherworldly. Would recommend bringing a sled, worth it to spend an afternoon surfing the sand dunes. Evening around sunset or morning for sunrise makes for the best pictures and temperatures to enjoy. Can't miss while in Alamogordo!!
Alyssa Brown — Google review
One of the coolest national parks I’ve been to. Crazy to see the endless sand dunes and just hearing about the history of the area. We did the longest hike here which is the Alkali Flat Trail which is a little under 5 miles round trip. Overall nice, there is signage but sometimes gets knocked down by the wind. Also there is zero shade so just be aware! Nice hike tho, just be prepared.
Josh Baltazar — Google review
Ranger in the visitor center is very helpful, describe so much about park. We walk few trails. Evening took the sunset ranger guide tour, which is very informative. Sledge on sand is fun part on this park. Visitor center gift shop carry Sledge, which cost: new $25, used $23.
Pritha Biswas — Google review
This was such an incredible experience. I had no idea how much of a special place this was going to be! I would definitely recommend watching the sunset here if you have the time. We got to the park about 5:30p and sunset started a little after 7:30p. I will for sure come back here.
Cooper Deupree — Google review
1st, I highly recommend you to get a national Park pass.
It's a great place no matter what's your interest.
Join the evening sunset walk tour, it helps you understand the white sand better.
Watch the 15 minutes' documentary at the museum theater is also helpful to get the sense.
It's dog friendly, I wish I brought mind there.
They also have camping sites.
Phoebe Wei — Google review
Outstanding time!! Bring a large cooler with a picnic and lots of extra ice and water-- the kids will love it. It's hot but a lot of fun. There are picnic areas that have built in shade. Our kids ran from that to the sand hills to the AC in the car. Bring your own sleds as you pay 25$ each and it's the only option for miles around although I think some lodging provides free rentals...
Jenny Infosino — Google review
As a wheelchair user myself I’m impressed with the spectacular view of the White Sands desert landscape. Since I didn’t plan on spending longer time at the park, I didn’t do the sledding activities. I did not go up onto the sand dunes, just driven through the scenic route. Plus, I don’t think I can fight the heat for more than 5 minutes(haha). It was really hot and dry. Even though, I really enjoyed the view of blue sky with different shapes of clouds and the bright white sand dunes that stretched across the horizon covered with those unique desert plants. Absolutely stunning! I wish all of my handicapped friends from Thailand could come and see this amazing piece of artworks from Mother Nature with their own eyes. I mean seeing picture is nice, but experiencing it with our own eyes is another level. The visitor center’s facilities are handicapped accessible. It has a small gift shop and museum but overall it serves the purpose of providing the information needed. The rangers are very friendly and helpful. I recommend the White Sands National Park. Absolutely worth spending your day here.
nutty nathnaryn — Google review
White Sands National Park is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable experience. The park is truly one of a kind.
highly recommend visiting White Sands National Park during the cooler months, such as spring or fall. The weather is much more pleasant during these times of year, and you won't have to worry about the sand being too hot. Be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and sunglasses, and wear comfortable shoes.
Srinivas Prabhu — Google review
I have visited White Sands National Park a few times over the years. My most recent visit was February of last year and it had snowed which made for a unique visit. The snow was beautiful along the sand dunes. This is a very enjoyable park to explore and relax.
Carina Jahn — Google review
This is so different than any of the national parks I have visited till now. Seems like a different world. We went here for both sunrise and sunset and it was spectacular for both times! I personally loved it during sunrise…. The white gypsum was shining as the rays were reflecting from the crystals. They have an entry station from where you can buy the pass / show your annual pass. Walk into the white dunes to get a better view.
Farzana Rahman — Google review
So beautiful! We had a fantastic time traipsing around the dunes. Bring a lot of water - even though we went in the winter and it was cool/chilly, we got very thirsty quickly. I recommend doing the trails closer to the visitor center - you learn a lot about the plants and wildlife. The playa trail was our favorite. If you’re not flying like we were, I would bring your own sled - they sell them (no rentals) and even the used ones are a little pricey. Sledding was very fun though, I highly recommend. We stayed for the sunset, which was really worth it. The gift shop has a great selection of postcards and sells stamps as well.
Jamie Smith — Google review
What a unique place! No beach, just white sand for MILES. Definitely go and spend as long as you'd like. The further back into the park you go, the bigger the dunes. You can go sledding, or hike on them. The sand is blinding white, so be sure to bring sunglasses. It is also recommended that you bring sunscreen and water. While there are restrooms throughout the park, there are no water fountains past the entrance. So, be sure to bring a bottle with you. In the summer, I can see how it would be an absolute MUST to have water with you. It's $25.00 per private car, and $20.00 for a sled (optional). A small price to pay for such a great visit. Happy Traveling!
Kay Williams — Google review
I loved this national park. We did the sunset tour and the ranger was friendly and informative. The views are breathtaking, especially during sunset. They restrooms all over the loop and you could also have a picnic while at the park. The trails are well marked and lovely. The boys had a blast sledding. You can buy used sleds for $20 from the gift shop. New ones are about $25, if you return it at the end of the day you get a $5 store credit.
Maggie Ruiz — Google review
Such a beautiful place to visit. We did sledding in the morning (like 9am) and weather was perfect for end of March. We also returned for the sunset. We didn't do the ranger talk but came about 30m before sunset and walked around. It was incredible.
Miel Rim — Google review
A very cool place to bring the kids and have lots of fun. I enjoyed the beauty of nature in a very white sandy environment.
If you dare, the sand is also great for boogie board surfing. You can bring your own board or rent one at the park.
Kevin C — Google review
Absolutely beautiful. Photos don't do this place justice. We went two days and had a great time playing in the sand and walking on top of the dunes along the Alkali Trail. Be sure to bring lots of water sunscreen and sunglasses. It can get quite bright with the sun reflecting off the sand.
Justin B — Google review
A mesmerizing landscape of gleaming white gypsum dunes stretching endlessly. Explore the surreal beauty, sled down the slopes, and marvel at unique flora and fauna. An adventure-filled sanctuary offering tranquility and wonder, inviting all to experience nature's masterpiece in the heart of the desert.
Gauri Rawat — Google review
Arrived before noon. Not too busy when we got there. A great experience for all ages.
Brought our 5 dogs and they had a fun time!
Definitely get there early or later in the day. Would love to go back for sunset.
David Constanzo — Google review
It is a very beautiful place to visit! Around the time that I went about 3 PM it was very fresh and towards 5PM it was much colder. Around 50° the sand felt very cool and it was such a beautiful sight to see. It was indeed a new experience ! They also have these plastic disks you can purchase to slide down steep dunes.
The New Mexico Museum of Space History is a place where people from all over the world can learn about space history and the pioneers that made it possible. Permanent exhibits showcase the historical developments of rocketry and space exploration, while special events like summer camp provide kids with an opportunity to explore this fascinating topic in a fun way.
I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this museum. It was fun and informative. There are a ton of larger pieces and rockets outside that you can walk around too! I had no idea how much space history was in the Alamogordo area! We purchased tickets for a showing at the planetarium and got to see a fly-through of the international space station and a really fun and personal star show. The man giving the show was very friendly and informative.
There's also a playground if your kiddos need a break!
Savannah Rudkin — Google review
Incredible museum documenting the early days of the US space programme, much of which happened at the nearby White Sands Missile Range. The artifacts and equipment on display are superb, with everything from space suits to rocket motors.
Th downside is that the museum seems frozen in time, with what feels to be few updates this century. I really hope they find a funding partner to execute the renewal that has now started.
Accessibility is excellent, with disabled parking and wheelchair access throughout. You start at the top floor and move down the building via ramps. Outside is a little tougher, but very very good.
Andrew Bond — Google review
Museum is well put together to really showcase early space history. There are so many great artifacts from moon rock to astronaut food to their space suits!
We did bring our kids, and there were a few interactive activities for them to do. Overall, it's more for teens-adults who will walk through and read everything.
Active duty military do get free access to the museum. We didn't do the planetarium, so I can't comment on if that part was included or not in the fees.
Dana Garner — Google review
We enjoyed our stop at the Museum of Space History. We even stayed for the Night sky planetarium presentation. My kids just had a blast. The space suits for the kids to wear and take pictures in was just awesome.
Meredith Wolff — Google review
One very cool space museum. They have exhibits inside and outside that you can walk through. Inside they have hands on simulation exhibits where you can land and drive spacecrafts. They also window walls which give you views of the sand dunes back dropped by the mountains and cityscapes. Very exquisite. The museum has something for everyone and guaranteed to stimulate your interest in space.
Susan Hardee — Google review
For the price I can't complain, the building and parking were great and modern. But found the experience dull and more catered for children. Some interesting bits of information though so worth popping in if passing but don't go out your way. IMO
Matt Ador — Google review
Alamogordo has a few culturally significant things to see - The Museum of Space History is one of those items. It's been around since the 70s, and it is filled with the history of the space program. It's mainly focused on US space history, but there's some international space history as long as a very nice tribute to Star Trek.
The museum is friendly for kids, but has a lot of interesting information for adults, too. The museum has walking areas outside with interesting information about rockets and the early testing done to get ready for orbital launches. There is also a playground right next to this for kids to entertain themselves. Inside you'll find several floors of very interesting information, interactive displays, and artifacts.
Ticket prices are typical for museums - ours were about $20. You take an elevator to the top and walk down gradually sloped ramps circling the central floors where the displays are until you get back to the bottom. It takes a couple of hours to absorb all the information.
The museum sits on the side of a mountain at the far west side of Alamogordo. The views are stunning and you're able to see the entire Tularosa valley and the White Sands off in the distance.
The MSH is one of my favorite places to visit over the years, and definitely worth your time if you're driving through or staying in Alamogordo.
zzz world — Google review
This is a hidden treasure for all folks interested in space. Five floors of very cool space exhibits, video games to fly the shuttle and land Apollo on the moon, plus a huge science fiction exhibit! This is a great place and it’s not crowded, even on weekends. Check it out!
Steve Schramm — Google review
My boys love this place! My 8 year old is a space fanatic, and is always thrilled to go and look at the exhibits. My 5 year old loves the actual ships one can view outside. Both go crazy over the chance to dress up as astronauts though, and that's usually the way each visit ends - they have so much fun. Super affordable, interesting, clean and cool, and they're always adding new things. So glad that the interactive exhibits are back!
Mandi M. Cruz — Google review
This place is definitely for anyone who loves NASA and/or space. With history about the launches, artifacts and replicas of different things on the ships, things to touch and play with to get a feel for how it would have been, and even some Star Trek stuff in one area too. I'd recommend to make a point to look up often since quite a few areas have things above your head as you walk. Missiles, planes, orbiters, nebula photos, etc. The gift shop is small but has a lot of stuff. Including a coin squish machine and astronaut candy.
Rose Green — Google review
If you’re in the area, make a point to visit this museum. It has a decent amount of displays, although it could use more. There are some interactive items, like a couple of simulators, and they do have items displayed outside. Educational, the displays are relevant and interesting, and will satisfy the interest of kids of all ages. More so, I hope that it inspires another generation to reach for the skies.
Travel Often — Google review
What an amazing experience! The Museum of Space History was not only educational, but super fun and interesting. Starting with the gravesite of Ham, the first chimp in space, on the walk up, the museum continues to amaze with the breadth and depth of artifacts and exhibits. Everything from the moon replica hanging behind Walter Cronkite as he was reporting on the moon landing, to space simulation exhibits, to an exhibit on space in science fiction, the museum was a joy for all of us (four kids and an adult).
Melissa Raffensperger — Google review
Fun experience as well as being educational. Outdoors you'll find a playground with lots of missiles, rockets, engines, etc. I especially enjoyed the whispering dishes where you stand like 100 ft apart and whisper into a dish and your partner can hear it! Inside you'll find old space artifacts, space suits, rocket engines, etc. You can stand on a vibration plate with large speakers and it'll emulate what the astronauts feel during a takeoff. It's several stories tall and there was thought put into the design as they route you around the perimeter of the building while changing floors, so you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains! A nice touch 👍
Great for all ages so give it an hour and enjoy!
Michael Fargo — Google review
Overall, it was so so. A bit too much to call itself the cradle of America’s Space Program…Exhibits were okay, some dating a bit. A lot of mock ups (sputnik, skylab, astronaut suits…) but quite impressed they had V2 engine parts (rotting outside though…). 36$ for two kids and two adults is quite affordable and I would have given four stars if it was not for the planetarium…
We bought the combo (museum and planetarium show). We are a family interested to better understand night sky and constellations. What a disappointment to watch this Night Sky Star Show narrated by a Museum Educator…So for 25 mins we were bombarded with information but it was so fast and using astronomy lingo that I got lost after 5 mins. We wanted to understand and be able to find the main constellations and not to be told about the backstory of their names going back to the ancient Greece…My two boys (12 and 11) just wanted to get out asap. Looks like the Narrator enjoyed himself though…what a waste of time…
They also present movies. One was on astronaut training, so makes sense but the other on the animals of Serengeti…really? This is bot a zoo…
Patrick Tanguy — Google review
This was such a fun experience! We went with our three kids (ages 6, 4 & 3 months) and while a lot of it went over their heads, there were also a ton of cool things to see and we all learned so much! My son is really into all things space so going here was a dream for him, would highly recommend 😁
Susana Unger — Google review
Free parking in the mountains. Bathrooms, drinking water, accessible. Outdoors and indoors. Elevator to fifth floor, walk down. For all ages. We are NASA buffs, we enjoyed. Planetarium in separate building, great for kids. $28 for museum and planetarium, senior rate. No cafe. Not to be missed.
Dee Dee — Google review
This place has some amazing history on display, inside and out! There was a closed area for renovation, and a few of the interactive displays need some attention, otherwise this is a 5 star review! At only $7 a person, it was a deal!
This was a marvelous place. For $27 per adult (there are discounts for certain groups, such as Seniors), you'll get access to the museum and also book yourself a spot in a 1.5 hour tour of the Acoma Pueblo, a beautiful Native village located atop the nearby Mesa.
The Museum itself is rather small, but includes some beautiful exhibits related to the local area and its people. There's also a video that plays regularly providing some additional history and context about the area.
The tour is where this place really shines. The tour guide for my group was knowledgeable, passionate, funny, and very engaging as he walked us through his home and provided so many insights into this magnificent area.
While touring the village, along with getting an opportunity to take in the architecture, history, and culture, you'll also get some incredible views of the surrounding landscape. There are also lots of opportunities to purchase some of the incredible, hand-crafted or hand-painted works of the people who live in the village.
This was a moving, enriching experience, and I was very glad to have visited.
Lance — Google review
April 1, 2018: Really enjoyed the museum and great selection of native American jewelry which I purchased. The Acoma Pueblo was fascinating and so worth the trip. About 60 miles west of Albuquerque but a beautiful drive with lots of natural beauty. A must see if you're in the area.
Terri Moore — Google review
Don’t miss the kind ladies selling their handmade pottery and jewelry. We had the amazing opportunity to have conversations with them as we purchased our authentic Acoma pottery. They taught us so much about their culture and craft.
The cultural center and tour were great and informative. We are so thankful to Jeremy, the guide, for a great narration despite having a sore throat! Good from the cafeteria was great! Will definitely visit again if in the area.
Lakshmi Yerram — Google review
This was an very interesting place. There are a great deal of local Acoma people running the museum and tours. The prices for tickets are a little expensive for the amount of museum that is there though. I was hoping that there would be a good deal more to the museum than there was and the historical context of why many of the objects were in the museum was missing. The cafe was small, but the people were friendly and helpful! The tour is the most interesting piece of your experience here, our tour guide was very nice and quiet knowledgeable. The Pueblos are still occupied by people from the local tribe, although many are newer dwellings than the ancient dwellings I was picturing. Do be prepared to meet many of the local Acoma people on your route around the Pueblos as your guide takes you past all the local pottery vendors homes with their pottery outside for purchase. I would definitely recommend coming here if you've never been here before, the building is beautiful and the people were very friendly; but I'm not sure it is worth more than one visit unless you go on one of their festival days. The views from the top of the Pueblos were extremely picturesque!
Kay W — Google review
This was an amazing experience of art, architecture, views and culture that I highly recommend when visiting New Mexico. When you walked through the doors (beautiful large wooden doors) you immediately feel the presence of the culture you’re about to be immersed into. I was disappointed that the Sky City tour was on hold because of Covid, but I respect the tribe leaders taking extra precautions for the safety of those living in the village. They do offer affordable virtual tours available in the museum so you can get a glimpse of the in-person tour. Tables are set up where you can purchase original drawings, pottery and jewelry. I viewed a live dance performance during my visit and it gave me goosebumps. Watching the dancers on an reservation with the village looking down on you is an experience to have once in your lifetime.
Nick Molina — Google review
Unfortunately they weren’t open on a Wednesday. Make sure to check the opening days and hours before driving there. It must be a beautiful place to visit though and very impressive. We are glad we stopped there as even looking up was unbelievably beautiful. We will be back for sure and next time a bit better prepared so we can book a tour.
Cheyenne Blatter — Google review
Great place to visit, with so much cultural history. Town is very well conserved. Guide was very kind. Crafts are beautiful.
Marisun Caamaño — Google review
Really really well organized and beautiful exhibit on the history and cultural of the Pueblo people. They have obviously put a lot of effort into preserving their space and culture. We spent about 2 hours here, and it was a very educational experience. The tour guide was great. All of the staff and vendors are very friendly and willing to answer any questions, and it was a great experience to visit. If you're in the area and have a morning free, I definitely recommend stooping by!
Nirja Desai — Google review
Interesting site. Arriving I was approached by a character that listed all the thing I was forbidden to do (just to make you feel welcome…). The Pueblo is not allowed to foreigners, fact that I understand and somewhat approve. They offered a virtual tour for 19 dollars + taxes which I declined since I don’t like this kind of experience. I decider to visit the museum, a bit expensive, for what it offers, but interesting nevertheless. The rest of the people was kind and available.
Luca Costa — Google review
Those who wish to visit the city itself must check in at the cultural center, where you can get on a tour. I didn’t know this in advance, so when we got there we had to wait for a while for the next tour. You could check their schedule on the center’s website, though it doesn’t seem like you can order tickets in advance on the website itself? It’s a cool tour regardless. It’s a beautiful place and please be respectful of rules.
DanDan — Google review
Wonderful pueblo housing on a plateau. The homes are still lived in, even though there is no running water or indoor plumbing. I highly recommend
Darlene Wilson — Google review
This was an incredible place. Especially if you love ancient sights. Our tour guide, Brandon was so great. His knowledge of the past was remarkable. This is definitely a must see.
Barbara Doud — Google review
After driving am hour and a half to get there, I found out I didn't see that they closed Mondays and Tuesdays. So we drive back on Wednesday, only to find they decided to close early. 6 hours of driving. Really glad the drive was so beautiful... Been here before, was so looking forward to seeing it again. Hope to have another opportunity...
Dennis Shuman — Google review
Jeremy is GREAT at what he does, we had a great time and learned a lot. This was one of the best stops on our westward tour, we stopped here during the balloon festival last year and it wasn’t open. So it was a mission to get up there, and we did it. Loved it, See it!😳🤙
Shane Dossat — Google review
You can drive here and see this amazing area for free. It will cost you to take a tour of Sky City atop the Mesa. It was closed when we arrived at 6pm, but that's ok, because we had the entire place to ourselves (or so it seemed). An Elder stopped to talk to us and he was very welcoming and informative. This entire area is one that everyone should experience. You won't regret it!
Old Town is a historic district characterized by its narrow streets and old adobe houses. The area is known for its New Mexican cuisine, including popular dishes like enchiladas and sopaipilla pastries. Visitors can also browse numerous artisan shops selling handmade jewelry, rugs, and pottery. At the center of Old Town Plaza stands the 18th-century San Felipe de Neri Church.
The Petroglyph National Monument is a hiking and biking destination located in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It contains thousands of prehistoric Native American drawings on stone walls.
Incredible! So amazing to see all the petroglyphs in the lava rocks! Felt like time melting, being able to see these ancestral drawings. . It was heartbreaking tho to witness destruction from people carving their names and dirty drawings. Please honor these Sacred places if you go!
BrainFreeze LA — Google review
It was cool view and it was really hot, but that’s New Mexico especially in the summer. National park service worker was really helpful with guiding my boyfriend and I to the monuments. Only went to one that was closest to the visitor center. It was an easy hike up but at the top it’s a bit steep. It was cool to see them and get a glimpse of history. I would recommend this monument!
Brian Copes — Google review
This area is not located where the visitors' entrance is. It's a cave that requires a few miles in hike north of the 3 sisters volcanos. Not frequently visited, which is why I like it. The roof of the cave was all green from moisture. It smelled a little like sulfur. Nice spot to watch the city lights, drink some wine, if you are not scared to hike back in the dark.
Bonnie Chanet — Google review
Visitors center was just a booth. The worker at the gift shop was making sure to follow CDC guidelines to keep a small enough number of people inside. Toilet vaults were less than ideal. Wonderful experience overall though!
Hanna Hollek — Google review
When you arrive at the visitors center, you are given a map and a video is showing to give you background on the locations.
There are three locations; all a few miles drive from the visitors center. We chose the first canyon due to time constraints. It was the most strenuous of the three according to the brochures. And a $1 parking fee.
We climbed our way to the top on rugged paths. Not for flip flops for sure. Gravel paths with steep inclines, steps, and some places you have to step over large rocks. But worth the view at the top and the amazing petroglyphs along the way!
We spent about 2 hours and only saw a fraction of the vast canyon.
Definitely recommend!
LeeAnna McDaniel — Google review
Worth a visit if you’re in the area. They have a few short trails where you can spot several petroglyphs. We hit it up early on a late July summer day and it was pleasant. Spotted a rattlesnake which was a bonus and super exciting. Several millipedes under the rocks and trails.
Vrajesh K — Google review
Very cool place! Short hiking trails and lots of peyroglyphs to see. We went to two different locations. It was free and the trails were pretty easy.
Paul Goodman — Google review
We hiked the Petroglyph National park trail. Trail is sand and an easy hike. We enjoyed the hike. We were ointed because the Petroglyphs we're roped off so we were not allowed to get us close to them. We did take pictures and water able to zoom in on them but it would of been nice to get up close to them. The weather was great. It was sunny and not hot. The trail is great for an easy hike for kids and dogs on a leash. I doubt you could take stroller because it is sandy.
LaWanda Batchelor — Google review
Very nice trail to go for a hike/walk. However, there are no trees thus no shade (besides a couple of shade structures), so plan accordingly. Initial leg of the trail is pretty smooth gravel trail (probably wheelchair accessible), but later parts (including going up the volcano) has some rough spots, nothing terrible, but watch your footing.
abesh mubaraki — Google review
Very interesting but you really need to take the time to understand why this is important to know about. Make sure you either don't take your dog or at least have some shoes for them.
Alex DeMartino — Google review
An interesting place. While you can definitely find a sense of peace and place in this park, several hiring trails are adjacent to housing complexes! It makes for interesting juxtaposition of an ancient indigenous site and contemporary living.
Fileve Tlaloc — Google review
This is definitely a must see. Plan on spending at least 2 hours here. They have several areas with easy to difficult trails so wear comfortable shoes. There are thousands of petroglyphs carved into basalt rocks on these trails and wonderful views from the top. We visited late March and it was already fairly warm so I highly recommend sunblock, comfortable closed toe shoes and a bottle of water.
Suz NoneYa — Google review
We hiked Rinconada Canyon. It was 2.5 miles rounds trip. For those who want a shorter trip, hike in and when you get to the bench turnaround and exit the same way you came in. Some of the pictographs where hard to find but that is part of the fun!
K. Williams — Google review
Great place to explore. Really cool petroglyphs to check out. Come explore something that's really awesome!!!
Barbara Hines — Google review
It’s a free very relevant historic landmark. You will receive messages from our ancestors. Amazing indeed. There are also very helpful guides and they’ll give you maps and directions for free. If you are in the area, it’s a must. In a few hours you can get an amazing idea of how things were hundreds of years ago. We also saw roadrunners, lizards and rattle snakes.
Johnny — Google review
We did the Boca Negra Canyon. Just because it's the shorter hike, doesn't mean it's easy, so keep that in mind. Really cool to see the petroglyphs but so heartbreaking to see the vandalism surrounding it.
Vanessa B — Google review
On our way to the airport. We were looking for an interesting place to visit before we leave Albuquerque and this was a perfect place for this. Very interesting. Easy to reach, we visited and walked around in about an hour.
W. B. — Google review
We went to the hike near Golf Course rd and Paradise. Dog friendly. Short loop hike hood for kids too. Sandy trail. Many petroglyphs to spot.
The Sandia Peak Tramway is a 3,163-metre aerial tram that takes tourists to the top of the Sandia Mountains for an amazing view. This tourist attraction is a great way for those looking for an adventure and something different to do in Albuquerque.
So let me start off I’m not fan of heights. We bought tickets the day before which they recommend. Check in was easy with friendly staff at the front desk. The bathrooms were clean and tidy. We waited about 15 minutes to board. Once boarded the tram the tour guide / cabin operator was very informative and safety was a top priority. The the ride up is breath taking you go from Desert to Canadian geography. The tour guide was very informing on the ride up with different information on geography and history. Once up top there was snow on the ground and very cold “bring a jacket” The restaurant was closed at the time. The air is very thin so keep your breath. You can walk around and see some of the nature in the area but be careful with ice and animals. During the decent I got a little nervous cause of my height fear. But it was a smooth ride the beginning on the decent was a little stomach kicking but you get used to it. And the ride down was way better than coming up in my opinion. I recommend the people were great and very professional.
Hunter Garcia — Google review
I would say this was definitely worth the money. My one complaint (and it’s a big one) is that the tram is too packed with people to enjoy the view unless you’re directly by the window. Wait for a group to go, then get to the front of the line to fully enjoy this experience.
It’s an incredible view even if you don’t get in the restaurant. If you DO want a reservation, make sure to make one a few weeks in advance.
There’s hiking trails at the top, and the last ride of the day back down is at 9. I would pick one path or another: go up for pictures and go to the restaurant, or go to the trails.
We went the picture route this time but next year we will probably choose to do some hiking instead. Beautiful spot definitely worth seeing.
Madie Leon Riley — Google review
First and foremost, the views from the tramway are absolutely breathtaking. As you ascend the mountain, you're treated to panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape, including the city of Albuquerque and the rugged Sandia Mountains. The tramway offers a unique perspective, allowing you to see the beauty of the area from a completely different vantage point. Whether you're visiting during the day or catching a sunset ride, the scenery is truly awe-inspiring.
The tram cars themselves are spacious and comfortable. They are designed to hold a large number of passengers, but even when the tram is full, there is still plenty of room to move around and enjoy the ride. The large windows provide excellent visibility, ensuring that everyone gets a chance to take in the magnificent views. The tram operators are friendly and professional, providing interesting commentary about the area and making the journey even more enjoyable.
Upon reaching the top, there are several activities and amenities to explore. The Sandia Peak Observation Deck offers a 360-degree view, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the surrounding mountains and valleys. There are also hiking trails for those who want to explore the natural beauty of the area on foot. The Kawanis Cabin Trail is easy enough and is worth the spectacular views.
Additionally, the weather at the top of the mountain can be cooler than in the city, so it's a good idea to bring a jacket or extra layers, especially during the colder months.
Daryl Marcelo — Google review
Was a really cool experience! The Tram going up was at capacity and didn't get a be right next to a window but still could have a pretty good view. There weren't a ton of people at the top. The hiking trails were beautiful and pretty easy to walk for most people I would say. The Tram operator was great and I wish I could remember her unique name. The views were out of this world! For a family of 4 it cost about $120 and I think it was worth it for the experience.
Jennifer McNeill — Google review
So my father and I was happy that we made the journey to the top. Being at 6,000 feet then make a trip up the tram to 10,000 feet. You have to go to the top to find out the actual total height. Got to leave a little desire. 😌 this is a hard experience for someone not used to the height but as you see the pics of the scenery were breath taken and so beautiful that I would tell anyone to go take in all that beauty. I took the pic of the bee to show that by just taking the pics of the skyline and terrain you can miss out on the flowers and beauty of nature in front of you.
Robert Trout — Google review
Despite my own extreme fear of heights, this is an experience you don't want to miss. The views of Albuquerque are extraordinary, the ride up is a little scary, but coming down was much easier. The gondola was large, and the trip up was full to capacity. Being crowded made it more difficult to see the views, but there is enough glad to make it work for everyone. Once at the top, you saw both sides of the mountain. And, if you like to hike, the ski trails are open to hikers in the summer. Even the gift shop was not only well-stocked, but very well priced. Parking is plentiful and free. You'll be glad you went.
Dennis Shuman — Google review
The Sandia Tramway up to the top of the mountain is a just beautiful and stunning view of the mountains and Albuquerque as a whole metropolitan area. If you're a tourist, this is a great thing to do for at least 2 or 3 hours. There's also a great gift shop too for the tourists. There are some great hiking trails and overall amazing picture opportunities.
Jack Voltz — Google review
Sandia Peak Tramway, located near Albuquerque, New Mexico, holds the title of the longest tramway in the USA. The journey from the base station to the mountain's top, at 10,378 feet, takes about 15 minutes each way. The trams are sturdy and adhere to strict safety protocols. The breathtaking mountain views can be enjoyed throughout the ride. At the mountain top, there's a restaurant called Ten 3, offering stunning scenic views. I visited around 4 PM and witnessed a spectacular sunset, painting the sky in fiery orange hues. Every moment was truly enjoyable. Additionally, skiing is available during the winter season.
PATHIPATI VENKATESH — Google review
This is the longest trams in the USA. Get your tickets online and be prepared to stand in line a while. Trust me, it's worth every penny. At the top of the mountain you'll find a nice restaurant TEN3. Great views from wither the bar area or the main dining room.
Lemmie Klein — Google review
Very cool experience 😎 Definitely recommend! We purchased tram tickets last minute as we were passing through town. We arrived and once in line to board, the wait was about 45 minutes. The views were beautiful even from the line! The ride took about 15 minutes and was stunning! You pass over a few canyons and valleys, so the views are constantly changing. Once at the top, the temperature was a brisk 35 degrees (25 degrees colder than on the ground)! We weren't able to eat at the restaurant, but they did allow us to buy cocktails and enjoy outside. So many photo ops, and we'll kept grounds.
Katie Zumbahlen — Google review
The tram is always always worth it. I’ve been multiple times and whether you’re a local or you’re visiting it’s always breathtaking. There are windows to go up and down (noon to 4, or 5-8) the ride is about 14 min and usually you have a good view no matter where you’re standing. If you’re visiting near sunset, make sure to head back to the line once it’s over otherwise you might miss the tram and have to wait another 30+ min. Bring a jacket too, it’s always surprisingly chilly and windy up there, but so beautiful!
Cecilia Williams — Google review
We loved the Tram. We were driving through in our RV and decided to stop and take it to the top of Sandia Peak. Enough parking for our RV although on a weekend it may be different. They don't have designated RV or bus parking. The ride up is awesome and the operator gave a nice commentary. The view from on top is great. It's 20° cooler so bring a light jacket. There is a nice restaurant on top with awesome views. We loved it.
Scott Freburg — Google review
Very cool experience! 10,300 ft overlooking Albuquerque and surrounding areas. We purchased tickets a head of time. They sell out fast! Had to wait 45-60 minutes past our time as it was the same weekend as the International Balloon Fiesta so there were many more people than normal, which was fine. The sun was shining and a small band playing which kept everyone entertained. The main facility and gift shop at the base is pretty cool. Beautiful views from the tram ride up to the top of the peak with 47ish of your closest strangers! The employees were very knowledgeable and shared many facts on the way up and down the peak. Once atop the peak, you are able to hike around the area at your leisure. There is a restaurant called ten3. Reservations are highly recommended for the main restaurant, be prepared to wait for bar seating and service, drinks and food are a bit pricey for some ($18 for specialty drinks, sandwiches $12-18, but at that moment, well, does it matter?) Be sure to hydrate before going up and bring water with you while there. The elevation change affects many so be prepared. And it’s windy and cold at the top so dress accordingly!!! Enjoy!!!
Anessa Kertesz Mueller — Google review
We enjoyed the ride up the mountain,it was beautiful. We went up towards the afternoon, so the air was a bit chilly,so I would recommend taking a light sweater if you plan on staying at the top of the peak for a while,everyone who works there is very friendly so if you have questions they will help you out or answer them. Also, if you want to get next to the window, get there early so you can be towards the front of the line,other than that if you don't mind standing in the middle of the car you're fine 😉 I also enjoyed how clean everything was,they do a very good job 😀 everyone should go here at least once and ride the tram
Liberty Walker — Google review
Kids love this experience. It is little Windy at the top and bring your jacket for sure. Per person was $27 but it was worth it. You can hike to the mountains and have fun with your family. It has a magnificent sunset. Do not forget to be careful to not miss the last tramway to go back. There are so many parking space. You need to close your stroller in the tramway and bring your water.
Hatice Kacer — Google review
Worth if you haven’t done any tramway experience before. Bit expensive. Good if you like hike as there are trails up there. Would not recommend if you just want scenic view and check mark this attraction in todo list. Wheeler peak is great place if you like scenic view. Sandia peak is good place if you need tramway experience, hiking, skiing or some scenic view.
Avani Jain — Google review
By far this was the coolest thing to do in Albuquerque! IT’s fairly priced and the views were just stunning! They only have 2 cable cars which come about every 15 minutes. The ride is about 15 minutes from point to point and was really smooth. There are no seats in the cable car, but there are plenty of poles to grab. There are also several short and long hiking trails at the top which we definitely took advantage of. I would highly recommend!
Dan Reamer — Google review
Not crowded, which was fantastic. The ride up and back were pretty uneventful. The views were gorgeous and with the price of the team ride.
Our "guide" on the way up was fantastic. Interacted with everyone answering questions, etc. The one going down need to find a new job. She basically told everyone that she didn't answer questions and struggled to keep her eyes open. I, literally, watched her with her eyes drifting closed more than once.
Cindy Robertson — Google review
Pictures from the top of the tram. Bought tickets in advance online. When I got there, I was told there was some weather that may cause them to stop running the tram temporarily. The staff kept me informed and there ended up being no weather delay. At the top, you can explore the area and come back down when you’re ready. There is a restaurant at the top, I believe reservations are recommended and there is a dress code after 7 pm.
It is a fun stop. There’s a gift shop too.
Gabrielle Davis-Jones — Google review
Spectacular views! Did a trail hike ( lol- less than 1/2 mile) was worth the Amazing views. Great weather hi 20’s and such small flurries I thought for a sec that it was pollen… Deducted 1 Star bc the Host & Hostess seated at table with minimal view despite repeated requests.. they claimed for larger group tho later they seated others just like ours (2)… the waiter Mike & others made up quite a bit for hospitality and attentiveness.. The Host & Hostess need more training in hospitality…
Thoroughly enjoyed Tram ride, weather & view… Sandia & Ten3 is a great place for pics or romantic date (ignore the Host/Hostess pair)
Gregory Lee — Google review
Went up to catch the sunset and it did not disappoint. Great view of Albuquerque and surrounding area. Temperature was about 25 degrees cooler than the city. Ride takes about 15 minutes one way. Would do this again on future trips to Albuquerque
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David Kunicki — Google review
4 stars only because the wait seemed extremely long. With small children, I wish there had been a better system where upon a arrival you are given a ticket with your place in line with a much smaller time window 15 or 20 minutes. By the time we had waited in the outside line and then the inside line, our youngest was getting cranky.
With that said this was a truly unique experience. We visited the Tramway the Monday before Thanksgiving. There was a lot of waiting. That was hard for our 2.5 year old. But the experience was worth the wait.
Being November, it was below freezing at the top of the mountain, and we got to experience some fresh snowfall.
There is a snack machine and restrooms at the top as well as the fine dining restaurant.
We took in the panoramic views and the snow and then headed back down.
The ride was about 15 minutes up, and the same was true for the way down. The tram operator gives you information about the mountain on the way up, and then the way down was a bit quieter just taking in the scenery.
This is definitely a unique experience you won't get to experience often.
It was fun for our 2.5 year old all the way up to my 71 year old mom!
Laurel Waller — Google review
Fun, and it gives you something to do in Albuquerque. The tram line is quite long and you climb a lot, so if you're coming from somewhere that is at sea level, just be advised that you may feel a little odd. You have to get the tickets online in advance, but once you get there the wait is not long. The tram runs every 15-ish minutes. The only thing we noticed is that, well... how to say this? I don't know if it's the change in altitude or what but in both directions, people were farting in the tram, and it's not fun you're trapped with ~20 people in a box with two tiny windows. I felt bad for the tram operators who probably have to smell stinky farts all day long. Other than that, the tram, a fun experience.
Valeria Larreategui — Google review
This was my second time riding the tram.
The views and sunsets are exceptional I recommend riding around sunset, so you can witness scenery and sunset on the way up and the city lights on the way down.
Bring a coat, dress warm, it was freezing and windy at the top.
And we did have a little wind on our ride, which was a bit scary but great to see the employees in communication immediately upon the wind gusts, with the tram receiving a call at what seemed like the exact moment of the wind to check on us.
The staff was friendly, professional and shared fun facts on the rides.
Worth it, clearly I've rode it twice and would probably do it again just to see/ share all that beauty again. The colors in the sky were so absolutely incredible.
AdvoK8great — Google review
This was a up and down (forgive my pun) experience. On the one hand, the tram going up was incredible. Very exhilarating 14 minutes. The views at the top? A+. Can’t be beat anywhere.
The cons: I got stuck up there for about 5 hours with a group of another 100 or so people because the power went out at the base station and the tram was not running. We had one last tram down and unfortunately due to a critical medical emergency we let the person having the medical situation use it to get down. The rest of us had to wait all night for shuttle buses to make it up the mountain and pick us up. Luckily for me I was a solo traveler and the first bus had one open seat for me to make it down. Yes, some families were stuck up there even longer as they waited for more buses, though all the buses were kind of arriving at the same time so it wasn’t too much for all of them. Eventually made it home around 1am after a long ordeal and an expensive Uber ride yhat ended up being a really long wait because drivers kept cancelling thinking that the tram had closed hours ago so no one should be ip there.
Anyway, I plan on going back sometime this year (this all happened two years ago) and going for it again, hoping for better results.
The tramway is out of the way, so Uber/Lyft will be pricey (get a rental car) and the restaurant at the top has very limited seating so don’t expect to be able to eat especially around common meal times or in worst case scenario, you get stuck up there with 3 tram loads of people because the power goes out.
Because of the power outage, I never did get to stop by the gift shop, so thats on the top of my agenda this next time around. And this time I will go there first instead of “going there on my way out”
Bronson Allen — Google review
Wow the views! And the service was great. Make sure to buy your tickets on the website they don’t sell them there. Bring a coat or sweatshirt it is cold at the top!
Thomas Cronshaw — Google review
I have always had a fear of heights (except when flying) but this was an experience I did not want to miss. I wanted to conquer my fears and live in the moment to appreciate the beauty from over 10k elevation to speak about for years to come. From the ground, the elevation did not seem so terrifying but once in and the ascend started, I soon began to feel a bit nervous but the magnificent views soon made me forget my freight as I was in awe.
The view from the top was superb and frigid! We went in late November so snow was present. We wanted to walk down the steps on the other side but the steps were covered in snow and a bit slippery but managed to get some pictures and videos. The descending ride seemed quicker and we were luck to watch hang gliders in the distance - it was magnificent! Perfect trip to take in the warmer months with friends and family.
Izod Man — Google review
Tram was great. Hike to the cabin was snowy and we post holed a bit but worth it. Restaurant was closed which was a bummer but that was on us. But tickets in advance but you can do it on your phone when u get there too.
Heidi Misch — Google review
This is such an amazing experience! You will be so glad you saw it! Dress warm. It's cold up on top! And get those tickets in advance!
Clear blue pool of water, with underwater caves & a 17° temperature, popular with swimmers & divers.
Amazing place! Fall in love at first sight. Water is cold and blue. Good for swimming and jumping! LOVE THIS PLACE!
Vojkan Dimitrijevic — Google review
My girlfriend and I stopped by here on a Grand Canyon Road trip in July. This place was a highlight of the trip.
It was only $10 for a parking pass. The parking was right next to the hole itself. They have lifeguards on duty. There are picnic areas, bathrooms, and a gift store.
The water looks amazing. I'm now planning on seeing blue holes anywhere I travel. It was also great that you can swim in it or even dive into it from the natural rock.
We jumped in a couple times (cold water) and had a picnic there. We saw some scuba divers show up to go down it too.
It's really spectacular to see and swimming in it was amazing.
JC Prazak (Ozark Explorer) — Google review
Beautiful park and rest area, sadly we didn't get to see the lake. Closed off because of COVID but it had lovely cliffs and trails, and some that could even accommodate our disabled family members!
Lizzie The Mostest — Google review
Spent the night in Santa Fe and decided to check out a couple of places listed on Atlas Obscura. One was the railroad bridge across the Pecos River. I asked about it at convenience store and they knew nothing about it. I told them it was listed as the tallest bridge in the area, and they still had no idea. The bridge was right across the street. "The tallest bridge in the area" was listed as such in 1930!
Blue Hole was a nice stop... For scuba people.
This hole is 80' deep and tidy-bowl blue. Couple of year old puppies were running around getting petted by anyone standing still.
Nice setup even if you're just swimming.
Randy Dykes — Google review
Had a great time! The water is 61 degrees and very clear. Highly recommend!
Abbie T — Google review
Really beautiful place! Very cold water but refreshing. Definitely worth a stop! :)
Kelly Michalak — Google review
Very cool little place. We went mid day so there were lots of people there, but it was still cool to see and to feel the water. There is a $10 fee you pay which you get inside the building. It gives you day access to the Blue Hole, and to the swimming area up the road a little ways.
Steph B — Google review
Excellent beautiful cool water oasis. The town really takes pride in its natural wonder
John Levins — Google review
Really beautiful place, really close to the highway. It’s amazing how this places has managed to captivate our attention while we were on our trip to Texas. It’s really deep and super cold, but the feeling you get when you first jump is all worth it. The two diving spots are perfectly safe and integrated into the landscape which adds to the feeling of this hole being part of an endless cave.
Eric Zastavnetchi — Google review
Place is beautiful and amazing. The water is cold, clear, and deep. Area is nicely maintained and open to the public. Water is from underground spring and is the same temperature year round. I went in January on a cold day and found people swimming. On some days you will find people getting certified for scuba. A true oasis with nice friendly people. Highly recommend.
Reuben Reyes — Google review
Last time I was here in August of 2019 and it was great!
These pictures are from around December 28th 2021 when no one was here but it was still beautiful and a treat to walk around, didn't jump in but was still tempting as the water temperature wasn't actually that bad! I dipped a foot in haha
Edit: came back here like week 6-7-22
Always a refreshing dip! Just passing through and had to jump off the edge :D
Kyle Lowman — Google review
Lovely deep blue crystal clear water swimming hole in the middle of the desert! Scuba diving available in summer.
Shastin Grace — Google review
I sure this is a wonderful place but unfortunately we wasn't able to find out. We pulled into the parking area by the small lake to let our dogs out after a long drive pulling a travel trailer. Two guys statered to yell at us telling us to go down to the "Blue Hole" and said we could camp there. When we pulled down into a spot there, an older Chevy Suburban drove onto the grass next to us and started to yell at us for parking there. He said he was the Mayor and he was calling the police. We left just as two police units pulled in. From the time we pulled in till we left (about an hour in all) we were not wlcome. This town needs to think about thier Mayor.
Bryan Atkinson — Google review
We stayed in Santa Rosa and went to the blue hole at 8am and jumped in! The website says they are open 7am-7pm but we didn’t see any employees, just one group putting their feet in the water.
It was amazing experience! So refreshing! A perfect thing to do to wake you up and prepare you for the drive ahead!
*Note: the hole is kinda tucked away behind the dive shop so don’t confuse the 2 lakes out front for it. Look on google maps at your location to make sure you’re in the right place.
Danielle B Bare — Google review
What a surprise! Get off the interstate and enjoy this beautiful spot!
Explore the vast Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument and discover its unique geological beauty. Immerse yourself in nature as you trek through slot canyons and witness cone-shaped rock formations that will take your breath away. This heavily trafficked park offers serenity, palpable energy, and stunning vistas regardless of whether you make it to the top or not.
Best place I visited. I had to hike through trails and up a mountain to get to see the tent rocks from above but it was great.
Matthew — Google review
Go in the early spring before it gets too warm. Bring a cooler, and have lunch after. This is a great hike that is fun for all ages. The higher you get you will need to help smaller kids along.
Carla Frazier — Google review
Stunning views at the top of the mountain plus a cool hike up to the top with a slot canyon. I would recommend going in the morning on a weekday because there are next to no people until 10 o'clock and it is significantly cooler in the morning. Bring a bottle of water and good shoes. Amazing hike for only $5.
Logan Harmison — Google review
I love exploring the outdoors and grew up traveling to the national parks and state parks in Utah and surrounding states. This is a great hike. We saw many older people doing the hike and were so impressed! I thought it was a hike around a rim of a canyon from the pictures we've seen, but you go through the slots in the canyon, walk along the base, then go up the mountain. They have some steps, but some places can be a bit strenuous and you'll have to climb over rocks. Bring plenty of water when you go. It took us about 3 hours with kids, but they all did great! It was 106 degrees out when we went, but the breeze and shady spots made it bearable. I believe there rangers hike up to the top before 4pm and start hiking down at 4 and make everyone hike back with them even if they haven't made it to the top, for safety reasons. Great hike, get out and explore!
Kristin Bogopane — Google review
I love this place! It can be pretty hot in the summer, so go early in the morning. The slot canyon is breathtaking and the rock formations are really neat. You can hike to the top and back down in about 2.5 hours depending on your fitness level. There are times you have to climb up and over things, so keep that in mind if you have a disability or injury. This place is great for kids.
Angela Holt — Google review
Fantastic views of slot canyons and "tent rock" hoodoos. Pretty easy and scenic hike to the overlook then continue on the cave loop, a total of 3.2 miles and 839 ft of elevation. I would have liked a longer hike but the views and scenery make a visit here well worth it. Get here early though, or you'll have to wait to get in. Opens at 8am.
James Torrence — Google review
Amazing scenery on a pretty easy hike. There is a little crawling and sliding on your rear end in sections but the trail is short and the views are spectacular. The only downside is that the park has a very small capacity and once it's full you have to wait for a car to leave before you are allowed to park.
Brad Davis — Google review
Hiking the canyon trail was a great outdoor outing. It shouldn’t take more than 2 hours up and down if you take you time to admire the scenery and take pictures. The trail is very easy for the most part, and the last climb towards the summit is a little steeper but is accessible to anyone who doesn’t have any mobility issues.
I suggest to take a left towards the cave trail on your back for a short but worthwhile detour.
Marie-Ève Gagné — Google review
Amazing Place. Reminds me of a Zion National Park Narrows trail meets the Upper Antelopes in AZ. Highly recommended if your in the area and want to experience an amazing trail. In certain areas the Canyon Trail Can get a little challenging because your climbing over rocks etc but it’s definitely do able and I saw active 50 year old plus people doing it. There are also certain sections of the Cave loop trail that are very enjoyable for older individuals. I highly recommend the Canyon Trail really cool views.
Bullitt 78 — Google review
This is such a beautiful place. Heavily trafficked, so you are passing people all the time. Regardless the serenity, beauty, and palpable energy are well worth the short trek. Slightly steep toward the end however that section of the trail is closed when very icy. Still, I reiterate that this hike is well worth it whether you make it to the top or not. It is gorgeous!
William Miglino — Google review
I grew up in NM and had never had the privilege of visiting this place until now. I am still in awe of the sheer beauty! Our kiddos were also in awe of their surroundings. I highly recommend this hike! A bit steep and narrow in places, but definitely worth it!
Bandelier National Monument is home to ancient human settlements dating back to approximately 11,000 years ago. The park boasts a rocky canyon and mesa terrain, with notable ruins such as Big Kiva and the Tyuonyi ruins that were originally built in the 14th century. Visitors can explore later caves carved out of soft volcanic rock along the cliff face and even climb short ladders into the alcoves. The Main Loop Trail, spanning about 1.
This was a great experience. Pretty nature hike through the woods while also being able to see authentic Native American cave dwellings that you can go inside. Bring sneakers, lots of water, and snacks. Plan to be there a couple hours to enjoy the trails, cave dwellings and scenery. We walked the main loop then headed to the Alcove. It took us 2.5 hours round trip. Overall it was a great experience and I recommend.
MA 13 — Google review
This is an awesome little gem in New Mexico. If you’re interested in historical places, you’ll love this beautiful place. There are ancestral Puebloan dwellings well preserved in the faces of the cliffs. They’ve setup a few of them for access to explore, which is a really cool experience. There are some really great hikes, and the best are the ones that take you through the entire dwelling areas and then to the Alcove House (which to get to the Alcove you’ll have to climb up 3 tall wooden ladders, and a few short ones). I highly recommend doing the Alcove House, but be warned, if you’re not good with heights, then you may want to view from the ground. Another great hike was the Falls Trail, which takes you to a beautiful waterfall. PLEASE BE RESPECTFUL OF THE AREA!! One of the dwellings was closed off from exploration thanks to vandalism, which is just so disgusting. Please don’t ruin the experience for others! If you’re ever in the area, check it out! Very beautiful and peaceful hikes, and a very unique place.
Ashley Fountain — Google review
Majestic and awe inspiring. We camped at the Juniper site, hiked the Frey trail to the ruins... It was around 5:30pm and we had the whole monument to ourselves besides a couple other folks.
Davis Xiong — Google review
I loved this place. I got my fill of adventure. I saw amazing pueblos, snakes, bears and I climbed up to some incredible views. If you plan to visit, I would recommend bringing extra water or Gatorade and a few hours to enjoy yourself. I would set aside at the very least 4 to 5 hours. The trail is short, but there are other trails on the loop to explore and I don't recommend missing them.
Lisa Wiggin — Google review
Such an underrated place! Amazing historical site and absolutely beautiful scenery! To think that people 1000 years ago live in these caves is simply unbelievable! And the creeks carved out these canyons! Amazing what time could do
Bryce R — Google review
An amazing place. We took a chance on stopping by on our way home from Colorado. Turned out to be a wise choice. Both Visitor Centers were interesting and the volunteers extremely helpful. The short bus ride was nice, got to pay attention to the scenery not the driving. The canyon views are beautiful. The village and cliff dwellings are viewed by a short hike and the additional hike to The Alcove House is worth it. The plant and wildlife are abundant. I hope they give this national treasure National Park status soon, consider it is one of the older monuments. BTW...the Park Cafe have excellent bison and elk burgers, excellent fare for after the hike.
Brent Frerck — Google review
One of the most unique places in the country. Def a must see. We went first week of April and it was great. Not a ton of people. Hike is fairly easy. There is a trail that is off the main loop that looked difficult. You climb 2-3 sets of ladders to get to top. On main trail, there’s Multiple ladders you can climb to see inside the houses. You will have to wait if you wanna climb as people take pictures. Plan at least a half day to enjoy. Maybe more in summer. Remember leave no trace. One was blocked off due to damage done by visitors. Overall amazing experience to walk back in time and see how people lived.
Joel Collishaw — Google review
Really cool monument. One of the cooler things I saw while going around New Mexico.
Pros:
Old structures, artifacts, great information, and you can GET IN the old structures. Climb ladders, walk on trails, etc. to get up to these old places. One of them was like 150 feet up a cliff face!
Cons:
Not super easy to get around. I had a hard time finding my way to some of the more obscure places, partially because I had no service there. The main loop trail is easy enough to follow, but there are a lot of branching trails and places where I could have missed something cool. It was also very hot and the water fountains were not working.
All that being said, the pros outweigh the cons, super cool
Adam N-A — Google review
So captivating to take a glimpse into how the Pueblo natives lived. Definitely gives you perspective how intelligent they are, and their way of life and how functional their way of lives were. You have to look hard but you can see a lot of petroglyphs up high. I wish I could of rent one of these caves for the night. I will say from the parking lot I feel like I'm watched from something on top of the right Ridge.
Vanessa Maldonado — Google review
I’ve always want to see cave dwellings and finally got to check it out. Pretty quick drive from Albuquerque. We got on a bus at the visitor center in town and they take you up to the park. We had a National park card so got in for free. Short walk and you can see the dwellings. Really cool place. You can climb a few ladders and go inside. Just a really interesting place and I would recommend to anyone interested in history
Wes Southerly — Google review
Although the ranger at the welcome centre wasn’t too welcoming everything else about this place is outstanding. Download the guide with a qr code for detailed explanation as you you follow the trails. The trail itself is often shaded by trees, the cliff houses accessible but I fear in tourist season this may be crowded!
Stop at the cafe, great food!
Catherine Shawarby — Google review
Great historical site of the Pueblo Indians. Before you start, I recommend spending the $2 (cash) and getting the trail guide booklet sold in the gift shop or visitors center. It has great info - especially if you are not taking a tour by a ranger. When you're done, stop in the cafe for a bite. It was really good! Better than I expected. Overall, it was a very memorable experience!
Lisa — Google review
Site tour of Frijoles Canyon is incredibly interesting and very accessible (paved, with section of steps). The narrated audio is worth it to add to the self-guided map. Would love to hike in the backcountry here someday, but the loop trail at the visitors center is very worthwhile.
Jon N. — Google review
One of the coolest and most engaging national monuments I've been to! The Pueblo Loop Trail is a must-do for any first-time visitor. Spent around 3 hours here.
Went in early Oct, visitors from 9am-3pm were required to take a free shuttle from the White Rock Visitor Center to the Bandelier Visitor Center due to limited parking. It was a ~25min ride. We were greeted by a park ranger who gave us a group briefing of the park. The Visitor Center was a complex of multiple buildings, including a museum, theater room, restaurant, and gift shop. The gift shop had a large selection of high-quality goods and even had Pueblo pottery from native craftspeople.
The Pueblo Loop Trail is the most popular. You're able to walk alongside the cliff dwellings and even climb wooden ladders 🪜 into a few of them! There are some steep, winding steps and (optional) ladders without railings in those portions of the trail that people with limited mobility may find difficult. Still, the ladder climbing makes for a very novel experience.
The final portion of the trail is to the Alcove house, which is an alcove 140 ft up in the cliff face. The ascent/descent involves four long wooden ladders and steep stone steps. It takes some time/waiting since there is only a single ladder for people going up and coming down. The view from the top is nice, but the journey itself was probably the main experience.
It was incredible to walk through all this imagining how multiple generations of people used to live in and at the base of these cliffs.
Leave no trace!
Tony Lin — Google review
Very cool place to visit. Did the main loop trail which allows you to go in some of the dwellings. Alcove house is closed due to snow and ice currently. Would like to go back.
Ashley Thomas — Google review
Very nice monument. The hikes are easy and not too long so my 11 year-old son really enjoyed it. Very interesting pueblo people houses carved into the rock.
We went to this monument when the balloon festival occurred, so it was not crowded at all (since everyone was at Albuquerque for the Balloon Fiesta).
Canyon Road is a picturesque street in Santa Fe, New Mexico that is home to over 100 art galleries, studios, and restaurants. The area is especially rich in Native American arts and crafts, with many galleries exhibiting stunning pieces of artwork. The street has a distinctly more residential feel, making it easy to walk around without having to fight traffic. Two fine dining restaurants are located on the street as well as one popular chocolate house.
Canyon Road is an enjoyable walk to visit many art galleries and studios.
Scott Eggert — Google review
Art lovers favorite place! Absolutely enjoyed visiting the galleries on Canyon road! Very interesting place and people working in there, easy to talk to and helpful information.
mariana — Google review
Must see if in town. An entire road dedicated to art. Walked around with my pup just enjoying all the sculptures.
Heather — Google review
The best street to walk in the USA. Christmas eve walk lacked the Christmas spirit in general or IMO. It still is a community event and recommended. A few photos.
David Torres — Google review
This was a fun place to walk and relax. Lots of art galleries and even if you’re not into art, plenty of cool photo opportunities.
Joel Collishaw — Google review
So many galleries. Pedestrian friendly street as well
Peter Reymer — Google review
The area is loaded with art galleries many with exceptional art including paintings, sculpture etc. Interesting area.
Rodney — Google review
must see for santa fe tour. what you want to see or enjoy, here's everything. highly recommended
Mahedi Hasan — Google review
Incredible art galleries one after another....sculpture everywhere.....so much creativity!
Allison Batchelor — Google review
Canyon Rd in Santa Fe is a must see. So many galleries to visit. Street art, neighborhood’s overall atmosphere is a work of art in-itself. Lots of walking, lots of beautiful areas to take a rest. Easy to spend a whole afternoon exploring. Parking lot available near Tea Room. Had lunch at Tea Room on the patio and it was very good and relaxing.
D Salazar — Google review
Great galleries and outdoor gardens with sculptures, beautiful fine art paintings and fun creative stuff. Highly recommend checking it out!
ALLISON GROVES — Google review
Lots of high end galleries and shopping along a long narrow street.
Jim Arnold — Google review
Nice place to take a long stroll and admire outdoor art, as well as multiple galleries to visit with various kinds of artwork for sale.
Gregory Smith — Google review
Cool art district full of art galleries and shops! Definitely worth a visit!
Heather Mires — Google review
Nice artsy area. Didn't have enough time but enjoyed what we saw.
The Inn & Spa at Loretto is a luxurious property with pueblo-inspired architecture and a spa, pool, and chic restaurant. The property is perfect for those looking to escape the everyday hustle and bustle of life. With its beautiful architecture and convenient location, the Inn & Spa at Loretto is a must-stay for anyone visiting Santa Fe.
We had an absolutely amazing stay at the Loretto Inn & Spa. The staff was professional, attentive, sweet and super helpful. We met for a last minute girls trip from all over the country and did minimal planning. The staff went above and beyond to help us plan and enjoy our stay. The hotel was beautiful, clean, a short walk to a bunch of great restaurants and has an amazing breakfast. We can’t wait to come back with the whole family.
Lindsey Buffamante — Google review
We stayed in the Pueblo Double room at the Inn and Spa at Loretto and it was comfortable with plenty of room for the two of us. It had all of the amenities that we desire. The service from the valets, front office, restaurants and shops was excellent. The location is ideal as the Loretto Chapel adjoins the property. It's a short walk to the Plaza, La Fonda and many shops and restaurants. There is a lounge area with a full bar, fireplace and had entertainment two of the nights we stayed there.
Mara Thomas — Google review
We spent nearly two weeks in June and had a very enjoyable experience. The staff were friendly and keen to provide a good service. Special thanks to Josh and his Front Desk Team for ensuring that we stayed in our preferred room as soon as it was available. Pamela, as on a previous visit, was especially helpful.
Peter Hall — Google review
BEWARE - this hotel is writing, posting, and responding to reviews on this and other platforms.
I ended up checking out a night early and changing my flight back to dc to get away. The room left a lot to be desired. It was dim, not soothing dim - dark dim. They’re also dated. I understand maintaining a vibe, but there’s a way to do it and keep it fresh.
As for he rest of the hotel…. The spa has no nail tech, so the spa is essentially somewhere to get a massage. The pool and hot tub were being rebuilt, and in addition to them not saying that up front - they charge a 30/night amenity fee for amenities you can’t use.
The manager didn’t respond to my email, and the front desk will put you on hold and never pick up. Don’t stay here y’all.. there are other places to stay in Santa Fe - stay there
Philip Wilson — Google review
Loved our room (basic but comfy). The service was good and above par. We had a lot of interaction with the valet guys because we brought our bikes along. They were helpful and informative. Splurged on a $300 massage. While the massage was good...no spa facilities were offered (sauna, pool, shower?) We really enjoyed the happy hours offered by the hotel and the ability to meet other travelers. We stayed four nights and recommend it to anyone traveling in the area.
Gaby Buscher — Google review
First of all, we loved our stay at the hotel. Great lobby and bar, and our room was perfect. Clean, cozy, sunny, and four-poster bed.
But here's the cool part. I was speaking yesterday with Tracy, one of the concierge pro's. I mentioned that I was hoping to ski while we were in town. Tracy told me all about this excellent local ski area called Ski Santa Fe. Really good terrain.
Anyway, this morning, I went up there, and guess who I ran into in the lift line... Tracy!
He gave me a personal tour of the resort. We skied the whole time until I had to get back to town. This was the best ski day I've had for years.
Best of all, Tracy is an awesome skier. I could hardly keep up. Thank you, Tracy!!
Brad Fisher — Google review
I have mixed feelings about this hotel. Excellent location, and the hotel is nice; but is best suited for older clients. We had so much hit & miss here, that it makes a good or bad review hard. We visited in the winter and the hot tub was broken, so they told us we could walk across the street to another hotel. The restaurant, Luminaria, is good, but nothing to overly brag about. Things close really early or open late, so be prepared to visit other hotels for drinks and food. We had a really good time next door at La Fonda. In-hotel amenities are there - but not really accessible at the same time. This hotel prides itself on being historic, but for us, it's a bit too stuffy. You're definitely paying for location here.
Julie Bedsole — Google review
My dad and I stayed here in April and we had so much fun! My dads room was newly updated and looked amazing! Special thanks to Pamela at the front desk for making us feel so welcomed. And Able in valet services as well. Would highly recommend staying here!!
Denise Ramos — Google review
I cannot say enough positive things about Loretta Inn & Spa. Just a few shout outs to the Best Wedding Ever for my daughter! Irene the event coordinator was fast, kind, and always professional! Chef Miguel cooked exquisite food and Banquet manager Juan had the Best service staff! Thank you for a memorable evening !
Melisa Valenzuela — Google review
This location is amazing! From the moment we arrived the team here were excellent. From the valet team to Edward B. at the front desk. Edward made our stay here the best it could be. He made great food and shopping recommendations as well as site seeing spots. Thank you Loretto team for such and womderful time, especially Edward B. for his attention to the details.
Michael Newbold — Google review
Much of my review is a result of the room we were given. I paid for a terrace room, which I envisioned as being a room with a balcony overlooking the city/town. Instead I was given a ground floor room right off of the main lobby "living room", about 30 feet from the piano player. Our terrace was a 2' x 10' enclosed patio adjoined the parking lot. The room had some spiders / bugs in the corners (which isn't housekeeping's fault) but wasn't what you want to see in a luxury hotel. Location was decent, staff was pleasant. Will likely not stay there again.
Jodi Eppler — Google review
Location is excellent, within a block of downtown. Hotel decor looks somewhat worn considering the resort fee and room prices. Hotel pool is still being renovated after a year, pool and gym are available at a sister property. The check-in process is not streamlined, ask for complementary coffee credit as it will be forgotten. Hotel restaurant options are well presented, although service is slow. Happy hour is very popular. Valet service is friendly and well-informed on local activities.
Janene Townshend — Google review
The Spa services are amazing! We just LOVED it and felt like we were on cloud nine. I have had a lot of body work done in the past but this surpassed all of it! I would highly recommend Linda Sampson for massage. Not to be missed!!
Linda Moore — Google review
Great stay and amazing staff, but I wish I could say the same about the security of the area. When walking outside the main entrance of the Loretto at night, you may feel a bit unsafe since there's occasional homeless and sketchy people walking near the premise. I think it's important to have security patrolling the area at night, specifically on Old Santa Fe Trail, to make make guests feel more comfortable.
Ea. N. — Google review
Booked 3 rooms ( family trip) and for most of our stay - 2 of those rooms had toilets that wouldn’t flush!!!!! so GROSS!!!!! Had to have “Engineering” come by 4 times!! This seriously impacted our Tours. The food in the main Restaurant was terrible for Dinner, practically inedible…. NOT much better for Breakfast…. Other than that…and being in need of a serious updating… it is centrally located, which makes bopping around the Downtown area of Santa Fe- a breeze. On the upside- Arturo at the Bar was wonderful!
JUST SAYIN' — Google review
We loved the Inn and Spa at Loretto! In particular, we loved the shops inside the hotel, the cute little coffee shop, Josh at the front desk, who was super helpful, with restaurant recommendations, and ideas on things to see and do, the bartender and ambiance in the Living room Bar, the large, comfortable room, and the location - so close to the Plaza! It feel like a quiet, high end hotel very close to all of the fun in Santa Fe! The only bummer is that the pool area is under construction, so not usable now, but it looks like it will be a beautiful space when it opens!
Jim and Polly Koontz — Google review
We had the greatest experience on our girls trip. The staff was all so extremely kind and generous, especially Hal. As soon as we checked in Hal greeted us and told us everything about the town, where to go dine and the places to see. He went out of his way to get us reservations, at an already booked restaurant, and spoiled us the entire trip. It felt like we were visiting family. Each night we would spend time in the lounge area by the fireplace and listen to the live music. The location is perfect to walk anywhere Georgia O'Keefe museum, MONA, Farmer's Market, restaurants, churches and shopping!
Nicole Walker — Google review
Our stay at the Inn and Spa at Loretto was fabulous. From the moment we arrived our experience was first rate. From the Valet parking attendants to the front desk to housekeeping, everyone was super helpful and friendly. A special thank you to Pamela who made my wife's Birthday special. The Inn is well taken care of and it shows in the cleanliness of the Lobby, Rooms, Grounds and Restaurants. It’s evident that the ownership and staff take great pride in their Inn and strive to give great service. The room was perfect and exceeded our expectations in every way. The location is great and is within easy walking distance to everything. We will definitely be staying there again when we return to Santa Fe!
John Phillips — Google review
I visited for a work conference. The hotel is clearly billing itself as an upscale experience, but the service doesn’t reflect that.
The valet didn't know what event was being held that day and was dismissive. The front desk staff member seemed bored. The catered breakfast was decent.
The location is great and the hotel is a nice building with services and shops scattered throughout.
I'd likely find another hotel when visiting for pleasure because of the staff, especially the valet.
Konrad Juengling — Google review
Location is fantastic and most things are walkable. Valet guys were great, knowledgeable and fast. You're forced into valet if you drive. The Hotel is beautiful and lots of photo op areas in the front.
The room was VERY dusty, like I was able to see the dust stuck to the tv that has been there so long it would be hard to remove. The bed was very comfortable but the down pillows held onto a lot of allergens and made for a rough week. The patio was cool but the doors didn't lock or shut properly so when the wind blew it would leak into the room. The toilet handle nearly feel off and my partner had to screw it back together so we could flush. Did I feel the room was worth what I paid for it, no. Did we mostly enjoy our stay, yes.
Zelexis Wellings — Google review
Very nice old hotel in the heart of Santa Fe next door to the Loretto Chapel. The rooms are spacious, but baths are a bit dated. The beds are extremely comfortable, however. The little kiva fireplace is quaint, and service was exquisite. The meeting facilities were top-notch and a great place for a retreat. The hotel rooms have balconies with chairs and a table.
Melissa Alexander — Google review
This hotel was one of the best we’ve stayed at AND ITS HAUNTED!
When we first arrived we were greeted by the valet who were awesome and at the front desk was Naomi who my partner and I both thought was one of the best hotel staff people we’ve ever met. Naomi was professional, naturally friendly and knowledgeable. She was quick and just had an over all good vibe.
The first few minutes in our room we kept hearing knocks at the door. But when we checked no one was there. I immediately realized that this old hotel must be haunted. So I went ahead and spoke out loud to the spirit and let them know that we come in peace and wouldn’t be staying long and that they are welcome in the room with us. The knocks stopped. No more haunting.
Santa Fe is gorgeous. I hope everyone gets the chance to visit and stay at the Inn and Spa at Loretto
Joey Pelletier — Google review
The front desk and valet attendants were great. Super helpful! Rooms were fine other than the couple of spider friends we found, which freaked our daughter out. A good stay, and repeat spot for us.
Brad Kennedy — Google review
Location perfect, price reasonable, service friendly and accommodating, with comfy beds and hot showers! Read a few reviews that stated rooms were outdated. I have to disagree, maybe they are renovating some rooms, not sure. However, we got 2 adjoining rooms - one king and one double - both were decorated tastefully in modern southwest decor. Bar in lobby was also nice with fireplace and large space to sit and relax. Also dog friendly. Highly recommend!
Loki B — Google review
I have not stayed here before… BUT when I was in Santa Fe I saw the exterior of the hotel and it was awesome! It really did look like a Pueblo house. And it’s in a great location! Good job Inn and Spa at Loretto!
The Georgia O'Keeffe Museum is located in Santa Fe, New Mexico and is dedicated to the artistic legacy of Georgia O'Keeffe. It has over 3,000 works including 140 OKeeffe oil paintings and nearly 700 drawings dating from 1901 to 1984.
Fantastic experience at the museum. She has such an incredible life, fearless, and reinvented herself multiple times.
The nature paintings are fabulous.
The staff is very knowledgeable and helpful.
Rhishi Pethe — Google review
The museum was nice. I especially appreciate the glasses for color blinded people and tactile descriptions - I just wish there were more of them. I recommend to buy the tickets in advance.
eva gartnerova — Google review
Overall good museum, but also slightly disappointing. Was hoping to find more info/historical artifacts about her personal life. Did enjoy the video interview back in the 1980s, when she was in her 90s. Paintings were beautiful and nice gift shop.
Mark Dickerson — Google review
10 stars. Awesome museum set up so well. Love the videos and listening to her speak. An awesome long lived life. A very simple lady who fell in love with New Mexico. So many colors and great gift shop
Nancy Steadmon — Google review
I visited on 3/11/22 and all I have to say is, "WOW, PERFECTION!"
The variety of masterpieces present us with an all-inclusive experience of the vast and amazing life that Georgia O'Keeffe lived and continues to share.
To people who say that the entrance fee is too much, I say, you didn't slow down and truly take-in the magnificence before you. As Georgia O'Keeffe said, "..take time to look."
Mateo D. — Google review
Stunning museum from one of art's true masters, Georgia O'Keeffe. Incredible exhibition. Varied history including her paints, brushes and visual history. The art is much more appreciated in person rather than a book. Her technique is superb in every visual way. One looks at deserts, flowers and the sky in such a a different manner. It's an incredible inspiration for anyone. The treasure of New Mexico.
MannyG33309 — Google review
This museum is on the smaller side but worth the visit. There was no wait in line, and the price was ~$22 for entry. The gift shop is well stocked, and the bathrooms were clean. We spent a little over an hour and a half inside. We also saw a cute dog on the way out.
MJ Ridenour — Google review
Wow! I've been wanting to visit the Georgia O'Keefe museum ever since my first trip to Santa Fe. I really enjoyed learning about the talents of the artist and to be able to view the Southwest through her perspective and all of her incredible art. I was uplifted and inspired.
The museum was extremely busy and crowded. I appreciate that the entries are staggered in order to limit the number of guests there at a time. The only I was disappointed by was the other patrons that were there the day I visited because there didn't seem to be much respect for the artist or the other patrons visiting. I would really love to spend a lot more time exploring when it's less crowded.
Ashly Ulrich — Google review
This museum displayed known and unknown pieces of art, spanning her many years as an artist. Liked being able to take pictures of certain artwork. Good for all ages, would visit again!
Jennifer Eames — Google review
Dream come true! Beautiful museum and you will need to get advanced time tickets. Bring earbuds for a little tour through full of information. It's a wonderful experience. Also parking is expensive but stay for lunch or dinner, stroll through town to feel you got your money's worth!
Carolina Glenn — Google review
We had a good time. The museum was small. They change out paintings four times a year. I am partial to flower paintings. When we visited there were not many flower paintings. There is a gift shop to visit. You do have to make reservations. We found a parking lot that was close.
Kathy O'Keeffe — Google review
What an amazing museum! This museum has a comprehensive collection of Georgia O'Keefe's works from the early years to the years before her death. You definitely need to get tickets ahead. We came shortly after open, and the only tickets left were for 3:30 PM. We ended up shopping and hanging out in the area (there is a lot to see around there) until our time. With each piece, there is a detailed description providing historical context to the art. You can also get a guided auto tour if that's more your speed. I came in to this museum without a thorough understanding of her as an artist, and I came out with a new appreciation for her work! A must-visit if you come to Santa Fe!
Nico Pauly — Google review
A tad smaller thanI expected. No senior discount. Tickets are $22.
We arrived w/ about an hour before closing, and didn't miss anything. We like combing the gift shops, snd actually bought some cards.
Nice venue, though many works have low glare glass, still harder to take photos.
Marc Milrod — Google review
A beautiful tribute to the works of a cutting edge woman named Georgia O’Keeffe! An artist, sculpturer and visionary, who was years ahead of her time!
She lived an extraordinary life, painting, nature and spent her late years in the most beautiful area to paint, New Mexico!
Plan about two hours to walk through the museum so you can observe each piece of the Extraordinary collection!
Ed Pizza — Google review
The Museum was an awesome experience. I did not pre purchase so I had to wait for the next time slot to enter but was allowed to purchase. The audio guide I would highly recommend. The woman explaining how to operate the device was very helpful. I thoroughly enjoyed how the art was displayed with younger works towards the beginning to see how she progressed through the years. Any fan of artwork would appreciate these works that are displayed and the admission price was fair for the exhibit and experience.
james tripp — Google review
Beautiful works. I had a small idea of who she was before visiting. After, I realize how influential of an artist she was. The collection at this museum is extensive and gorgeous. They even have some of her tools and paints etc. It was a great visit. If you’re into guided audio tours, they provide headphones and have an online audio guide for a slow paced, narrated walkthrough.
poltergejst — Google review
Well curated museum with changing exhibits!
Friendly staff throughout!
Security was great and very knowledgeable!
Kathy was doing spot tours, I highly recommend stopping to chat for more information, she was fantastic!
They offer closed captioning, audio guides, courtesy wheelchairs and color correcting glasses!
They have restrooms, water fountains and a coatroom for personal items!
No pets are allowed except for service animals.
I visited on the first Friday of the month and they were offering free entry from 5pm-7pm!
Stop by the gift shop on your way out they have a great selection!
Jacqueline Spizzirro — Google review
Beautiful gallery with gorgeous artwork displays. If a New Mexico resident, take your ID and go on the first Friday of the month as is free for residents that day. You must find paid parking off site. No parking lot at museum.
Heather Moran — Google review
Yes, there are quite a few pieces here, yet just a couple of what I considered "classic" O'Keefe pieces depicting skulls and flowers. Would've rather gone to her home museum near Abiquiu, I think.
Brian Baker — Google review
The Georgia O'Keeffe Museum in Santa Fe, New Mexico, stands as a testament to the life and works of one of America's most celebrated artists. Visiting this museum is not merely an excursion into art; it's a journey through O'Keeffe's evolution as an artist and a glimpse into the landscapes and inspirations that shaped her iconic style.
Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted by a carefully curated collection that spans O'Keeffe's entire career. From her early abstract experiments to her later, more famous works featuring enlarged flowers and New Mexican landscapes, the museum provides a comprehensive look at her artistic progression. The layout of the museum allows for a chronological exploration, offering insight into the influences and experiences that influenced O'Keeffe's artistic vision.
One of the most striking aspects of the museum is its ability to showcase O'Keeffe's mastery of color and form. Her use of vibrant hues and bold compositions captivates viewers, drawing them into the intricate details of her paintings. The museum's lighting and display techniques further enhance the viewing experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the subtle nuances of O'Keeffe's brushstrokes and textures.
In addition to her paintings, the museum also houses a collection of O'Keeffe's personal items, including clothing, tools, and photographs. These artifacts offer a more intimate perspective on the artist, allowing visitors to connect with her on a more personal level and gain insight into her daily life and creative process.
The museum's educational programs and exhibitions add another layer of depth to the experience. From guided tours to interactive workshops, visitors have the opportunity to delve deeper into O'Keeffe's art and legacy. Special exhibitions often feature works by other artists who were influenced by O'Keeffe or explore themes related to her life and work, providing a broader context for understanding her impact on the art world.
Ghost Ranch is a popular tourist attraction located in Abiquiu, New Mexico. It was the site of Georgia O'Keeffe's other house and is known for its breathtaking scenery that served as an inspiration for her work. The ranch offers visitors the opportunity to explore the area on horseback or through landscape tours guided by art experts. In addition to horseback riding, there are also anthropology and paleontology museums, three trails to hike and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Lovely! We just came here to do the kitchen mesa trail and it was beautiful. The drive here is also very scenic.
Jessica Wojtasek — Google review
Georgia O'Keefe painted here one can see her inspiration at all points of the compass. We were day visitors and had a wonderful time and found great photo ops. Highly recommended.
Thad Zajdowicz — Google review
I love Ghost Ranch, haven't stayed for a few years and it is so special. I usually stay on the mesa and the rooms are lovely. The food is very satisfying, especially as all you have to do is show up, no prep or clean up. There are lots of trails and beautiful light.
Margaret Shumaker — Google review
I had an amazing 4 nights at Ghost Ranch in mid March. The scenery and hiking was incredible. Exploring the and facilities on site, getting to know the history of the place from Native Americans, to cattle rustlers, to Georgia OKeefe, the paleontology museum with Graham (shout out!), all fantastic experiences. The welcome centre staff were great - Beth and Eileen, couldn’t have been more helpful. The dining hall was great - getting to know fellow guests over delicious meals, comparing notes on hikes and experiences…I really didn’t want to leave, and will definitely be back with family and friends.
Paul Jones — Google review
The trail ride at Ghost Ranch is in my opinion the best way to see this beautiful scenery.
The wranglers are very knowledgeable and friendly and the horses are well trained.
The trail guide Dustin was very nice and offered interesting information about the history of Ghost Ranch. If you visit Ghost Ranch you must take a trail ride! Its a great way to spend some time!
Thanks Ghost Ranch and Wranglers for offering this opportunity to enjoy the horses and explore the Ranch.
Will definitely be back to ride again!
Adele Yazzie — Google review
Most beautiful place on earth! Photo opportunities abound, there are tours going daily, but you can see what you are looking for everywhere! History of the ranch is plentiful, and photo opportunities are abundant. There are public restrooms and places to sit by the ranch house. Great views! You can stay as long as you like. Don’t shop the trading post, they are really unfriendly.
Candy Hucklebee — Google review
Amazing day trip from Santa Fe. It's quite the drive but when you get there your breath will be taken away.
I just couldn't get enough of the views. Great place for photographers, artists, nature lovers, and hikers. Admirers of Georgia O'Keeffe will be rewarded with a feast for the eyes and senses as well as an understanding of inspiration for her artwork.
Virginia Huffman — Google review
Another wonderful horseback riding experience at Ghost Ranch! The wrangler for my trail ride was Colton and he did a great job of making everyone feel welcome on the ride as well as sharing the history of the ranch. The horseback ride is the absolute best way to see the ranch and experience this magnificent landscape. The horses are all well mannered and the wranglers are always professional and friendly!
Ghost Ranch will always be a favorite destination! If you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a day trip Ghost Ranch is a must see and the trail rides are an excellent choice to view the scenery.
K E — Google review
Visited mainly for the location, the O'Keeffe connection, and the paleontology museum. Going here coupled with the O'Keeffe museum in town was a good combo, getting to be in the location that inspired so much of her art, and learning how Ghost Ranch history is even more than just that connection. The paleontology museum was cool! Small but really neat, and a must stop if you have a dinosaur lover in your group. Honestly even just seeing the location is breathtaking enough. Definitely stop by if you have time.
Colleen G — Google review
My friends and I stayed 1 night in the dormitory at ghost ranch and it was the best value I think I’ve ever gotten at a hotel. The ranch definitely isn’t luxury but the rooms and shared bathroom were nice and clean. And in exchange you get to stay in one of the prettiest places in America where you can walk a few minutes to a dozen hikes with hardly anyone else on the trail (in February).
The staff was so kind and obviously cared about us having a great time. Food was included in our stay and the buffet tasted great and included options that accommodated both gluten free and vegetarian guests. The highlight was obviously the hiking and exploring the whole campus, and it’s hard to find anywhere like ghost ranch (especially at that price).
Margaret Seikel — Google review
So much fun. The ranch hands at ghost ranch were awesome to listen to and talk to. Great voice that the whole group can hear. The tour was fun even for a guy that is a little stiff and has never ridden a horse before. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a horse back or art history experience.
greg montgomery — Google review
Great place with some interesting history & fun activities. There are a multitude of hiking trails with varying difficulty. Chimney Rock is the most popular & its pretty short too. There’s a few places mentioning Georgia O’Keefe & her time spent there. You can even stay in one of her cabins. The ranch has been featured in many movies & tv shows, documentaries, music videos & even advertisements for Ariat & clothing & products. There’s neat history with the fossils found there as well. The library was the old Johnson&Johnson house so the architecture is pretty cool. There’s also educational programs & retreats during the summer, but not while I was visiting.
David Burman — Google review
My husband and I live in New Mexico and yesterday we took a little day trip to the Ghost Ranch. The scenery is incredibly beautiful and really well worth the trip but the state of Ghost Ranch is unfortunately in bad disrepair. The amount of revenue that must come through Ghost Ranch must be really substantial so one has to wonder where all this money is going. There is visible clutter and detritus everywhere and all the cabins are in terrible shape, it’s hard to believe that anyone would feel comfortable staying there. So many incredible things could be done with this space.. plant some cacti gardens or flowers near the cabins, clear up the scrap metal, move away the garbage truck parked near the trails, it’s almost as if there is no aesthetic vision or care put into any square footage on the grounds.I am sure Georgia O Keefe would be most saddened to see the state of Ghost Ranch as it has fallen into complete disrepair. Come to see the beautiful and incredible scenery, learn about the history and then maybe go home to your clean house and save $150
Phoebbe@aol.com mcgrane — Google review
The scenery is absolutely gorgeous and the staff is very knowledgeable about the history, wildlife, vegetation and geological formations. Service provided by the Welcome Center, dining hall, and staff are outstanding. As a photographer I'm most grateful for the advice provided by Jeanelle at the entrance gate. She was very helpful in providing suggestions for specific locations where I would find terrific scenic views.
David Hood — Google review
Amazing views. Worth the trip.
Road in was quite rough watch for pot holes (I was in a car), rooms were meager, but clean, bed was fine. If I go again, I’d take a coffee maker to use in the room.
The bad: Cafeteria dinner was sad, borderline horrible. Very limited selection, meat dumpling was room temp, I was concerned I might get sick. We had to sift though several plates to find ones that appeared clean.
The good: Breakfast on the other hand was great, hot and plenty of choices. Dishes appeared clean.
Staff was great all around.
John Allen — Google review
The landscape and energy of Georgia O’Keeffe here is incredible, but, BE WARNED… make your trip a day visit with a landscape tour! Sketch the Morning with Susan was beautiful, and she was kind and knowledgeable - but Ghost Ranch’s accommodations and facilities are wretched. There was a lot of poop spattered on the bathroom wall and junk (like old broken furniture, broken screens/windows and general garbage) scattered all around the property. I can’t imagine anyone feeling comfortable staying here.
We appreciate minimalism and limited amenities but the website is deceptive in their description of the accommodations. It seems the facilities have not been updated or maintained in decades. The place isn’t rustic, it’s GROSS. My family and I now joke about abandoned-looking places we would RATHER stay at than Ghost Ranch.
The Presbyterian Church, who owns the property but stopped funding it a few years ago, should be ashamed. Georgia O’Keeffe would be heartbroken to see what became of Ghost Ranch.
HIGHLY recommend going a few miles down the road to the beautiful Georgia O’Keeffe Museum next to the Abiquiu Inn and taking her Abiquiu house tour.
Cynthia Oldham — Google review
I grew up coming here for two weeks every summer and while it has changed a little bit it is still my favorite place in the world. Amazing classes where you can learn how to paint, weld, write or adventure around the area to see some incredible views and hikes. Can’t recommend this place enough!
Rachel Hoffman — Google review
The best part of visiting Ghost Ranch was the drive from and back to Santa Fe!
With all the hype I heard about the ranch I was disappointed! It needs a lot of updating. The displays, videos and directional signage is stale and outdated.
Granted the views of the amazing mountain ranges surrounding the property are phenomenal but that was about it.
Ed Pizza — Google review
Beautiful scenery and unmatched solitude. We visited on a day trip from Santa Fe and loved our visit. Access to the ranch is $10 per person but provides access to several miles of well maintained hiking trails and the Ghost Ranch property which includes museums, a library, and several outdoor areas to picnic/rest.
B G — Google review
I got stuck going to Monastery of Christ in the desert. Luckily a couple brought me to Ghost Ranch. They immediately offered me food and a room at a discounted rate because I couldn't get towed out by anyone in the area. The next morning maintenance drove me to the road and towed me out.
The sheer hospitality oozing out of every crevice of the ranch is amazing both from the staff and the few people I had the pleasure of speaking to at dinner are incredibly friendly. Speaking of dinner, it's served buffet style in a dining hall and the food was amazing! There was also this mango enhanced water that was incredible.
The room was cozy and had a beautiful painting by O'Keefe and there's a ton of facilities and beautiful sights. From my conversations with the front desk they also have concerts - sort of like a mini Woodstock, I think the next in September. Definitely something I will make every attempt to visit!
Edward Morante — Google review
Tour guide on landscape tour was wonderful. Accommodations were okay,, and meals were decent, given cafeteria style set up. Fun patrons led to interesting conversations at meals.
Cindy Clement — Google review
I loved staying in Ghost Ranch while visiting the O'Keefe home in Abiquiu. You can do WONDERFUL hikes in the ranch. I also enjoyed the library (open 24 h!) and the friendly community atmosphere. Restaurant included with the acomodation. Great, calm place for a retreat in low-season months (I was in April).
Oriol Sierra — Google review
My husband and I recently stayed at Ghost Ranch for a couple's retreat with Ellen and Mike Johas Teener. This was the best workshop I have ever taken in my life and will help me become a more loving human. Ghost Ranch was stunning. The rooms, service, and food were wonderful and spectacular. What a blessing - forever thank you.
Sarita Streng — Google review
Being from canones n.m and ghost ranch being my front yard it's the most beautiful area on earth that must be why it's been used for so many films. I was recently in Chandler Arizona and seen a restaurant named ghost ranch the thing that really made it catch my eye is because they have 100% stolen your emblem and name logo... Major copyright that they are doing there:(
Brandon Serrano — Google review
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280 Private Drive 1708 Highway, US-84, Abiquiu, NM 87510, USA
New Mexico River Adventures offers all-inclusive trips that take care of everything from pick-up to drop-off, including rafting and photos, tasting fees, and lunch. The full-day trip in early April provided perfect weather for a mild class 2 & 3 experience with wet suits and splash jackets provided. Guests recommend purchasing NRS Wet Shoes for added comfort.
Our experience with NMRA was amazing! Our family (3 kids ages 11, 9 and 5) did the short Racecourse Half Day. The staff was so friendly during our whole experience - especially Ashley (spelling?). Devin, our guide, was DA MAN. He made the whole ride safe and fun. He kept the kids (and the adults) entertained and informed. I'll recommend to anyone visiting NM!
Alexander Ho — Google review
Rachel and Diego were the best guides ever. They knew their stuff, had great attitudes, and we're genuinely fun to be with all day. If I'm back in town again, I want them as my guides.
We took the all day trip, that wasn't worth it, we probably spent 90 minutes of it stopped waiting for another grouped or on shore eating- great fajitas though. Half day trip would have been fine since I didn't see much gained from the whole day in this case.
Pictures attached were from their photo package, definitely worth it, they did a great job there.
Dave Werkema — Google review
This was our second trip with New Mexico River Adventures. This time was an all day on the Rio Grande. Rachel was a great guide! While the flow rate of the river was low, we didn’t get stuck but a few times and never had to get out to walk. Great lunch along the route! Highly recommend!
Joe Honea — Google review
Came here for a 3 night trip with my college and it was AMAZING!! The guides were so informed and passionate, even after 3 days of really hard work! The food was BEYOND better than I could have imagined for a river trip, literally ate steak on the first night… Needless to say if you want an amazing, beautiful, comfortable, and overall fun-tastic experience out on the water these are the people to go to!! Shoutout to Luke, Baker, Amelia, Auston, and Liv for making this trip so incredible!🙌
franybean 2 — Google review
We had a great time with Austin as our guide for the full day trip with lunch included. We went in early April. The weather was perfect as it wasn’t too hot or too cold. We were provided wet suits and splash jackets which were just what we needed. I would recommend buying NRS Wet Shoes before you go (like wet suit shoes) because our feet would have been cold in the water is if we would have worn just sandals. Austin was pleasant and cooked a great chicken fajita lunch. The full day trip was class 2 & 3 and is very mild. Perfect for any family trip. Highly recommended and very reasonably priced.
Scott Jones — Google review
Overall an awesome trip! We did the recourse kayaking & it was so much fun to be in your own individual kayak! Our guides Rachael & Jo did a great job keeping us safe while allowing us to have the best experience possible. Everything from initially booking to getting our pictures at the end was seamless. Couldn’t have asked for a better experience! Can’t wait to go again!
Brenden Garland — Google review
Had a great half day river run. Ava, our river guide was awesome!!! Had my 7 year old grandson with us and she keeped him calm the hole trip and showed him how to move the raft around. Ava, thank you for a great trip.
Martin Cortez — Google review
What an amazing experience!! We had a great time and made memories to last a lifetime. Our guides were Austin and Ben and both were incredible to say the least! Our safety and safety of the entire group was their priority and the knowledge they share is unmatched!! My son is still talking about Ben! We will spread the word here in Texas and will definitely be back next summer!!
Christy Miller — Google review
My wife and I were so pleased and all our expectations were surpassed on our Racecourse ride this morning. Our guide (I think
Amelia? Sorry) was fun, knowledgeable! Informative and talented. Everything about to trip fro the initial sign up to the leaving of the site was a pleasure. Can’t wait to go back!
Joel Usher — Google review
It was a wonderful experience. My family enjoyed a lot. The staff and special Diego (tour guide) were so nice. Everything was very clean (equipment and place). The organization (transportation, pictures, safety guidelines) and the way that they give you the tour are amazing., I will go again at the end of May. Be ready to have a lot of fun and do exercise. My mom is 70yo and she wants to go again. 😃
Erika Gabauer — Google review
This experience was completely amazing! Our guide, Casey, was so much fun. He was very informative, and even though some in our group were a bit anxious at first, he made sure we were safe and felt at ease, even through an unexpected, sudden torrential downpour with crazy lightning and booming thunder. This was the experience of a lifetime and I cannot wait to do it again! I highly recommend NM River Adventures and if you get Casey as your guide consider yourself blessed!!!
Cindy Rybarczyk — Google review
I had some trepidation about this trip & I had a blast. As a relatively fit, (not uber fit) women in her mid 60's I wasn't sure to was for me ... It was great. A lot of care, (including safety is clearly very important to theM) a lot of fun and a great first rafting experience. My friend and I did the 'racecourse' run. And a special shout out to our raft guide EMILY, very efficient caring and fun. Great job New Mexico River Adventures
Patricia Mitchell — Google review
My 3 year old and I did the family float. It was super cute. Just a chill ride. Only complaint is the ants everywhere at drop in and out. Could they spray the area or something?
My older kids and hubby did the race course. They loved it!!
Casey and Mattie were our guides. The best!!! ❤️
Carie Boatright — Google review
We loved our rafting trip today! The equipment seemed all in good repair, the lunch was amazing, our guide (Devin) was concerned about our safety at all times, and we felt well prepared as we entered each set of rapids. Everything was done so well by everyone we encountered. Even the pictures offered at the end were great pics that we felt were well priced and not outrageous. Would 10/10 recommend!!!
Jody Lyon — Google review
Dan was our rafting guide and he made sure we were safe and had fun paddling down the Rio Grande race course. Everything was so organized including wetsuits, waterproof shell and helmets.
Charlene Kim — Google review
Amazing trip from start to finish! Brenden is wonderful guide...we had 1 person who had never rafted before and was really nervous. He did great making sure she felt comfortable yet giving the rest of us a fun trip down the river. We've done trips with this outfit before and they are as awesome as ever ..from the front desk to the shuttle driver...they all have great attitudes and just really want your trip to be the best it can be!
Teresa Pace — Google review
This was my first rafting trip. Went with my two adult sons and had a blast. Dan L was our guide, and he was very professional and fun. The lunch was really good. The only critique we would
have is that we love pictures from more than just one point in the trip. But, overall, it was an excellent day. We’ll be back.
Michele Stinson — Google review
A friend and I did the all day box canyon trip on 4/29/24. Jake was a perfect guide: supportive, personable, and expert with the boat. He and the rest of the folks at New Mexico River Adventure shared the experience with us on a beautiful day on a beautiful river, in a beautiful canyon. All the equipment was first rate and they even managed to feed us a warm and tasty lunch with stuff they brought on the raft. I had never rafted before and always wanted to. This is the place.
Joe O'Neil — Google review
I think that was the most fun thing we’ve ever done living here in NM for 8 years!!
Rafting was not the only fun part. Our leader was also so great! He gave us all the info that we were surrounded with. My 7 yo had a BLAST!!
All the staff were just so wonderful! I wish I was living close by so I could do it way more often!
I just can not tell good enough about them!
ayşe uzuner — Google review
We have rafted the river a couple times but New Mexico River Adventures was the best! Our guide Dan was very informative not only about our safety but about what we seeing along the way. He made our water adventure fun! I will definitely return.
The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge is a remarkable bridge in America that stretches over the Rio Grande Gorge, measuring an impressive 650 feet long. It is situated near the Greater World Earthship Community, where self-sustaining homes made from recycled materials and earth can be found. These homes are both eco-friendly and stylishly designed to blend seamlessly with their surroundings on Taos mesa.
Cool area. Do not attempt to walk on the bridge if you have a fear of heights. You are really high up. There is a lot of movement when big trucks drive across the bridge. Great views!
JW Winfrey — Google review
Lovely view. Went in December so it was chilly. I've been to the Rift Valley in Kenya and this is a smaller version but still worth a look. Not much parking and the walk to the bridge is along a narrow dirt track. Local drivers dont slow down.
David Gilbank — Google review
This is really just a bridge, you stop before or after it and walk to be on the sidewalk part that over looks the gorge. It was pretty awesome. The road coming from Santa Fe was sketchy for a bit, really steep, narrow, and dirt, but we made it in our minivan. The bridge has cars going over it, and when a semi drive over it, the whole thing was vibrating. Kind of terrifying but so cool too!
Leslie M — Google review
The gorge was beautiful. It wasn't overcrowded, but I was surprised at how many people actually were there. If you aren't able to climb on rocky terrain and over a small ledge, you may want to park at the other end of the bridge and not at the parking area. in the parking area, there is restrooms and picnic tables. It would be a great place for a family photo or senior photos.
Amy Miles — Google review
It's worth stopping after you drive over the bridge. You can walk across the bridge to the center for some breathtaking views. This is definitely not for someone who has a fear of heights since you are looking down into a very deep gorge for sure!
Trisha Appel — Google review
Beautiful! Truly amazing place. We drove over the plateau from the gorge. There are many hiking trails and amazing views! The road is a little rough after the steel bridge. But, the views are worth it!
Lavonna Skeans — Google review
Great place to stop on the way to somewhere, have a picnic, enjoy the view, walk around a bit.
There's a clean restroom and the picnic tables are under a roof that provides enough shade/protection from rain.
Sofia Ben Ami — Google review
Spectacular vistas. Well maintained rest area with clean bathrooms. Local artisans and vendors exhibit along the circular drive and have excellent prices on jewelry, textiles, and artwork. Fossils and minerals. Several shaded seating areas and well marked trail with safety fence along part of gorge edges. It's really a special place with amazing 360 views.
William Bock — Google review
So gorge! Such a beautiful and eerie rift valley 20 minutes NW on the outskirts of Toas. If you love geological features and heights, this is a spectacular view. You can drive over the bridge or stop, park, and walk along the bridge. Vendors are at the rest area across the bridge. Must see place in northern New Mexico.
Katrina G — Google review
I only got to stop briefly at the Gorge before nightfall, but the view is spectacular. I loved the easy walking trail that allows access to more of the canyon than a view from the bridge. Wish I had spent more time there!
Linda Thompson — Google review
Magnificent views from the bridge! If you are afraid of heights, beware! The railings are not too high and your legs will start shaking 🫨
There is a parking area where you can take photos of the bridge which you cannot do when walking on it.
Don't miss it! It is worth the drive.
Alejandra Aboud Keenan — Google review
At 650 feet above the river, The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge is the second highest bridge on the U.S. Highway System and the fifth highest bridge in the United States.
With breathtaking views, the area is equipped with a public rest area which includes picnic tables and public restrooms.
Hugh Mondragon — Google review
Beautiful Bridge with a great view of the Gorge below. Leave yourself enough time to walk the west rim hike. Also a great place to view the sunset
Kelly Geer — Google review
It’s a nice stop. The rest stops were clean and they had street vendors offering local art and jewelry. It was a nice stop to take in the view.
Felicia S — Google review
Nice and quiet area for a walk and some sightseeing. Several vendors in the rest area with interesting jewelry, carvings and other items. The bridge is impressive from afar and crossing it is cool, if you’re no afraid of heights! There’s a point while crossing it where you might feel a bit overwhelmed by the height. The feeling is heightened by the cars passing by. Still a cool experience!
Mei-Ling R — Google review
Beautiful bridge.. best during sunset.. cross the bridge (if you are coming from Taos) and park at the rest area . Walk up on the bridge and enjoy the marvelous panoramic view of rio grande river and the mountains . We even saw some beautiful lightning during sunset.
Buvi Ramanathan — Google review
Great views from the lookout points along the bridge. It's about 1/4 mile walk from the unimproved parking area where there's an historical marker. Interestingly, there are Crisis Helpline call boxes at the lookout points. Sadly, jumping from the bridge must be common.
Ross Keener — Google review
Beautiful place with a beautiful view! I do recommend to stop there even for a second if you have the time! There are vendors in the parking lot selling beautiful artwork/jewelry as well as a non temporary suicide awareness bus.
A. Catarina — Google review
A beautiful site to see!! A short drive from Taos, breathtaking views, and I even saw two bighorn sheep a male and a female!! There were quite a few people there and I think some people selling various items. There's also a restroom.
Geena — Google review
Great attraction which is a short drive from Taos. The views are breathtaking. Make sure to see the gorge from both sides of the bridge. The views are spectacular. It was super windy and that can make certain people feel nervous. There is a parking area before you get to the bridge. It is depressing to see suicide call numbers but seems like a good service.
Rhishi Pethe — Google review
Well worth the drive for this amazing beauty. The views are insane and only made better by the picturesque New Mexico sky. Park at the rest stop and walk across for unparalleled photo ops.
Dawn Fisher — Google review
Beautiful place to explore! Wear sunscreen, the sun is usually pretty strong here. The bridge walk is narrow, but worth the steps for the view in the middle.
Luke Southern — Google review
Gorgeous view but be careful walking out onto bridge. It’s not 100% pedestrian friendly. The sidewalk is not wide. Be aware that large vehicles will make the bridge bounce.
Jackie Frosch — Google review
Great side attraction that is free and worth the short drive out of Taos. The views are amazing and there was plenty of parking at the rest stop just west of the bridge.
I only had two minor complaints about the experience. The restrooms were closed, probably due to the season. Also, there didn't seem to be any established route to get onto the bridge from the rest area. You basically had to walk a "deer trail" and hop over a guardrail to get onto the bridge.
Ryan Snyder — Google review
Just a short drive from Taos is this beautiful and spectacular bright and rest area. I didn't know about this place, but it kept popping up on my phone. It was an area where you can walk along the rails. On our visit, vendors were set along the rest area. The bathrooms were clean. It's an awesome site to see and it's free.
Jesus Herrera — Google review
Venturing from Austin, Texas to Taos, we made sure not to miss the awe-inspiring bridge with breathtaking views of the Rio Grande River. The drive was absolutely worth it, offering a tranquil escape with the added joy of watching people stroll along both sides of the bridge.
Absolutely stunning pottery and very welcoming people. We were shown around and learned about the artists specific process in creating these delightful pieces. We got the cutest cups there and cannot wait to use them. Highly recommended!
Jean Jeannie — Google review
We’ve visited JoAnne and Kevin’s gallery twice so far and the selection is simply amazing. They are true artists who have mastered their craft, and the colors imparted to the pottery from their wood fired kiln are really beautiful. The pottery that’s available ranges from artistic to functional, all very high quality, and most importantly they are so helpful in explaining the different aspects and features of whatever you’re interested in. Initially, we just happened to be driving by and saw their sign, then decided to make a u-turn and go back, and it was such a fun experience. Definitely a highlight of our day!
Larry Howard — Google review
This place is INCREDIBLE. A must stop on your way to Taos. It was so cool getting a tour of the process and getting to see how much work goes into each piece. I could have stayed in the gallery for hours. Also I am obsessed with my new mug!
Kelsie McGuire — Google review
Such beautiful pottery made by the kindest and most talented artists! The pieces created by Kevin and Jo each have a unique story and I am always in awe of the gallery space each time I visit. Very excited about my new pieces and can’t wait to return!
Argie Cabalan — Google review
I had the pleasure to meet Joanne and Kevin, two very special artisans. They took the time to share their craft and part of their story. The pottery they each produce is beautiful and different. Everything fired with wood in an oven Kevin built. The ash and heat produces the most beautiful pieces. They have such a wide variety from coffee cups to large vessels. I bought several pieces. I plan to buy more in the future. I am so grateful to include Kevin and Joanne in my life.
Dan — Google review
Saw this spot as we were driving through and decided to stop. Denise gave us a lovely tour of the shop and taught us some about their process! Everything seems to be crafted with a lot of care and intention. I’d definitely recommend stopping by!
Mackenzie Santos — Google review
We came across Enchanted Circle Pottery during a road trip and it is an absolute must visit destination if you’re in the area! JoAnne and Kevin were so welcoming and it was amazing to be able to tour their studio and learn about their process. Their work is absolutely beautiful. True pieces of art. And I fell in love with the beautiful features of the wood firing process. We bought several beautiful pieces that we will treasure forever and will definitely return whenever we’re in the area!
Vicki Cabrera — Google review
Real treat meeting Kevin at enchanted circle pottery. He gave us a nice tour of his shop, kiln room and gallery. Kevin is a talented potter making well crafted, functional wares. The light weight pots were a surprise for wood fired pots. Definitely worth a visit and don’t forget to take home a beautiful piece!
kris busch — Google review
What an incredible experience. Denise walked us through the entire process. We toured their working studio and learned about their wood fire kiln. The gallery is warm and inviting. The pieces are carved beautifully and the colors created by the wood fire are gorgeous! Definitely worth the stop!!
Kristine Leathers — Google review
Beautiful studio, owned and operated by super friendly and lovely artists. I am so glad we stopped by to take a look at their studio, gallery and kiln. Thank you Kevin and JoAnne for sharing a little bit of your great love for art and ceramics knowledge with us.
Nayely Ibarra — Google review
Beautiful pottery. I’m in love with what I purchased here (plates and bowls). They look gorgeous in my home and are magic to eat from. Owners are lovely. Worth the drive outside of town if you are visiting Taos.
Caitlin Jones — Google review
An absolute treat - art, a great view, and wonderful people! The folks at Enchanted Circle Pottery were so nice, and they had so many wonderful creations. They even gave us a behind the scenes tour! The colors in their pottery are purely from the fire. No dyes or oxides! Their meticulous firing process creates the rich array of colors. Every piece was truly unique. Each mug was even a slightly different shape, so you could find one that fits your hand perfectly. Along with amazing art pieces, there were inventive practical pieces like mug warmers, cup lids, and silverware display vases. We came home with several pieces and wonderful memories.
Melanie Narish — Google review
Lovely visit to Enchanted Circle! Beautiful location and pottery. The owners, Kevin and Jo, are so friendly and showed us their kiln and process of how the pieces are made. Tough decisions--so many beautiful items from very large to small--something for everyone! We love our soup mugs and ice cream bowls!!!
Karen Breidenbach — Google review
We visited several places in Taos and Santa Fe but Enchanted Circle Pottery was the highlight. Kevin gave a quick tour of their Japanese-style wood firing technique (what a lot of work!). The pottery included both functional and beautiful works of art. We came home with several pieces, a great coffee mug, a vase, and a sculptural piece to grace our living room. I'm sure we'll be back.
Phil and Ginger Sytsma — Google review
We stopped by on our drive home from Taos and were so surprised to get a tour of this amazing studio. The wood fire kiln is massive and the ash glazing technique creates such beautiful and unique colors on the pieces. We got a beautiful set of bowls. Great stop!
Holly Madden — Google review
Day trip around the Enchanted Circle Loop had us stopping at the Enchanted Circle Pottery Studio. What a treat to see their 22 years of invested time building their home, studio, wood burning Kiln, and a place to see great art being made. As an old Potter from the late 60s, it made my knowledge seem very small at best.
Kevin, if you read these reviews, one of my other five lives was 8 years of boat racing termining in Blown Fuel Jet Drag Boats...sending you a photo to prove it was me.
Be Informed — Google review
Friends of ours recommended we stop by Enchanted Circle Pottery on our way back to Colorado Springs. We're so glad we did! Artists Kevin and Jo were delightful! They gave us a fascinating tour of their huge "train engine" kiln and their beautiful studio. We bought several pieces, and plan to return soon! Great functional art, as well as exquisite display pieces. Their unique wood-fired clear glazing process produces one-of-a-kind natural finishes. Well worth stopping in!
Elizabeth Ryan — Google review
My husband and I set off on a scenic drive when we happened upon Enchanted Circle Pottery. Kevin greeted us like we were old friends and graciously showed us around while explaining how they came to be and the unique process they use to achieve the beautiful finish on their pieces. We selected a few pieces to take home, but this unique olive oil bottle is my favorite. It is gently “squished” in the middle to fit in your hand. Thank you so much Kevin and Joanne!
Taos Pueblo, an ancient settlement belonging to the Taos-speaking Puebloan tribe, is located about a mile north of modern-day Taos, New Mexico. It is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in America and features twin five-story adobe complexes situated on either side of Rio Pueblo de Taos against the stunning Sangre de Cristo mountains. These buildings are believed to have been completed by 1450 AD and serve as a prime example of ancient Pueblo architecture.
4.5
(3111)
New Mexico, USA
20
Great Sand Dunes Visitor Center
Visitor center
Nature & Parks
Facility offering exhibits & a short film about the park, plus a bookstore, snacks & souvenirs.
This place just doesn’t make sense. It’s incredibly beautiful and a wonderful place to camp! It has great meadows, mountains and of course huge sand dunes. This park is absolutely worth the adventure. The pictures DO NOT DO THIS PLACE JUSTICE. Definitely going back.
JB — Google review
Who knew there were sand dunes in the mountains of southern Colorado. I've vacationed all throughout Colorado when I was young with my parents and as adult with my wife and daughter. The sand dunes are NOT what you see at the beach. It's an amazing experience to see and interact with the sand. You can hike up to top. You can rent sleds and or boards to slide down the sand dunes. The park is open 24 hours. However the visitors center open for specific times and days. The Great Sand dunes admission is $25 per car load. I recommend during the summer go early in the morning before the sand heats up. At night you can see the stars and on a full moon the dunes come alive, but bring a flashlight.
The Park Rangers are helpful and friendly. Plan to visit when you're in Southern Colorado.
Jeffro Turbo — Google review
An excellent stop! Very informative, inviting and interesting. All of the displays and videos were top notch. The view of the dunes from the visitor center is fantastic as well. The rangers are very thoughtful and helpful.
Elise White — Google review
Awesome place. Stop at Zapata Falls. Short hike but, wading a creek. Be sure to go all the way in to see the top falls.
Lavonna Skeans — Google review
This is a hidden gem. It seems like nearly no one knows that there is a national park in the middle of the Colorado mountains that has miles and miles of sand dunes. Yes it feels like and looks like you are in the middle of the Sahara desert but you are in the mountains of Colorado! It is truly eerie that there are 700 foot sand dunes that you can climb and literally walk for miles in sand dunes in the middle of the Colorado mountains. But be prepared for a tough hike up towards the top, the 2 mile hike feels like four since you are walking in sand. Yes it is a bit off the beaten path but definitely worth the trip. Truly a must visit, HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Sandy Silverman — Google review
Beautiful national park with great views! It will be windy, so prepare accordingly. Also a hike on sand takes longer so if you’re going up the dunes give yourself ample time. However there is plenty of flatter terrain to hike as well.
Katie Vincent — Google review
When we went the visitor center was only the gift shop. All of the exhibits and theater were closed, due to Covid, so we weren’t able to have the full experience. You can buy your souvenirs here. NOTE: they do NOT sell or rent sleds or boards here. If you are planning to sled or board, you must buy or rent beforehand. I’d like to go back sometime to experience the rest the visitor center had to offer:
Ashley H — Google review
I have been wanting to see the dunes in Colorado for a long time. They were pretty cool to see. I wasn’t able to climb them this trip due to a recent knee repair surgery but hopefully one day. The people were climbing up then sledding down. It looked like a lot of fun. It’s well worth the stop yo see. Again, it was a little less than organized. There were signs but there was no one around to explain anything or ask questions unless you went to the visitor center.
Patricia L — Google review
This park is one of a kind. Beautiful views all around. The feeling of a beach in the mountains. Make sure to make the hike up to Zapata Falls. And take a plastic sled or board for the dunes. There is something to do here for all ages and enjoy.
Jessica V — Google review
Very unique national park with extensive sand dunes for miles. I went during fog after a storm. The wet sand was easier to walk on and the clouds made for cool pictures.
Emery Emerson — Google review
Tourist trap. It's decent enough, crowded, and the ac isn't great with all the doors opening all the time. The exhibit is neat inside. Didn't go to shop, but some peeps in the crew bought stuff. Water refill station is great (wish there was more than one).
The signage on the trail is not maintained, but the views are great.
H C — Google review
Spectacular!
I'm so glad I read reviews. People are not kidding when they say get there early. On a week day. Not a holiday
We've traveled on a motorcycle from Richmond Virginia to the Grand Canyon and we are slowly heading back east. This National Park was on our to do list. It is Saturday, Memorial weekend. There was a 13 minute backup delay at the entrance going in at 10. Coming out at 12:30, the line of cars stopped, waiting to enter, is over a mile long. CRAZY!
The park rangers were not letting cars go down to the parking lot to the dunes, because it was full. We were allowed to go down on the bike. Otherwise, its parking on the side of the main road and walking a half mile or more.
Once we parked, we took off our shoes, rolled up our pants, walked across the rushing stream and went up the first hill. The water was cool, inviting.
Families are all around, kids digging in the sand, splashing in the water. It's the beach in a vast, land locked area.
Definitely worth the trip. I cant stress enough the importance of going early. On a weekday. Not on a holiday.
Billie Evans — Google review
A wonderful pitstop on the road! While I didn't climb the peak it was amazing to climb to where I was and the views were stupendous!
Bring closed shoes and hiking poles if you plan on going up past 8500ft. 😀
Rick Shaw — Google review
It was a really beautiful spot. I will hopefully be back to visit at nighttime one of these days. The visitor center is very nice too.
Joe Schmoe — Google review
Very informative Visitor Center as usual! Lots of infographics here and big maps that details the park. There is restrooms and also a gift shop in here as well.
The Royal Gorge Bridge & Park is a 360-acre amusement park situated on top of a canyon, which is spanned by one of the world's highest suspension bridges. The bridge was built in 1929 and spans 1,260 feet across the 950-foot-deep Royal Gorge. The park was greatly affected by a wildfire in 2013, but has since been rebuilt with attractions such as aerial gondolas, rides, and a theater.
We arrived to Royal Gorge Bridge and Park after a snow storm the day before. The weather was beautiful staging a nice sunny day. This historic landmark was worth the almost two hour drive to get there. While most of the activities were closed due to winter maintenance, we were lucky enough to have been able to ride the gondola. The gondola alone was worth the cost of the ticket of admission. The landscape continued as far as the eye can see, beautiful gorges and canyons that you could have taken in for hours. For those that are scared of heights, I have a fear as well and managed to walk across the bridge with comfort. Don’t let fear keep you from experiencing this park.
Ashley Suarez — Google review
What an amazing view! I really enjoyed the day. Consequently, there was a storm coming in, so we were not able to ride the gondola across the canyon.
The Park Ranger Michael was so kind. He gave us a really nice history of the park, and let us know if we came back the next day our tickets would still be valid.
The Raphtor Show was really educational.
The landscaping is pretty.
It was worth the drive! Go check it out!
Les Bro — Google review
Entrance fee is $32 per person and that includes unlimited gondola rides. It won’t take too long to walk around the park if you don’t do the zip lining or the rafting tours. It took us about 2.5 hours to get food, walk the bridge, see the shows in the theater and take the gondola back to the visitor center. The view from the bridge is quite amazing and a little unsettling if you look through the gaps in the wooden planks. Definitely stop by the theater and watch the bird show.
Aliza Brown — Google review
It is definitely a beautiful area! Today the gondolas were closed because of high winds! The winds were in excess of 40-50 mph. It was cold with the wind chill but beautiful!! We also watched the movie on how the bridge got its start and how the fire in 2013 effected the area, as a lot was completely devastated by fire! Everything had to be rebuilt around the bridge. Thankfully not much of the wooden planks on the bridge were damaged by the fire. But they are now presented in front of the building that houses the ticket booth, restaurant, restrooms and gift shop! Enjoy your trip!
Chris Hamm — Google review
Last time I visited here was about 15 years ago, so it's been awhile! But it was as awesome as I remember it being from back then! Although they were still allowing cars to drive over it back then, I definitely like it more now that it's mostly pedestrian traffic. I highly recommend reading the history of the bridge on the walls to the left hallway once you get past the ticket area. General admission tickets include the red gondola ride, so go get on that! And if you're brave enough, go do the zip line! Love this tourist spot and it's always really cool to see engineering masterpieces like this!
Stephanie Ellis — Google review
It was a great experience! We bought the tickets there! But actually, you can buy it online for faster entry! And the main thing is the Gondola rides! The zipline and the skyline! The bridge is the main reason! The cafe has good food! At a reasonable price! Make sure you apply bug repellent!
Brolin Allfan — Google review
Adult tickets are $35pp and it includes the gondola across the gorge, when the whether is good. We went two hours before closing and it was a bit too windy, so we couldn’t ride the gondola. It was a beautiful walk across the bridge, with every state flag, people zipping past on the zip lines and flying back and forth on the swing. Looking down over at the river and train track was really wild, as you could feel the bridge move because of the sway in the wind. Definite must see!
Erica Edwards — Google review
During our visit to Royal Gorge, Colorado, we enjoyed the complimentary gondola ride that came with the entrance ticket. The bridge itself was stunning, and we loved the breathtaking view it offered. The zip lining and sky coaster activities provided thrilling experiences. At the ice cream store, we found the best vanilla ice cream on the mountain. The bird show was also quite enjoyable. Additionally, they had a theater presentation showcasing the history of the bridge. Overall, it was a decent experience, but we felt it didn't quite live up to the hype.
Srujana Mereddy — Google review
Great experience, the general entry is around $25 bucks, they offer military discount. Great view. You can add other recreative activities, (you paid extra for them).
Dario Doro — Google review
We spent the night in Canon City and was able to arrive at Royal Gorge Bridge and Park Just as it was opening for the Day. We quickly purchased our tickets and proceeded to walk across the Bridge. Seeing and hearing the river almost 1,000 feet below was amazing. As you walk across the bridge each states flag is displayed and I had to stop and get a picture with the Virginia Flag (my home state). The views from the bridge are spectacular and in almost every direction. As we approached the south side of the bridge, we saw a several big horn sheep scampering around on the rock. Our ticket included a gondola ride across the gorge which afforded us a spectacular view of the Bridge and gorge. Because we arrived early there were no lines and we were able to enjoy the Bridge and the other attractions at our leisure. Several people in our group did the Sky coaster thing and the zip line. They all said they were totally amazing. All the employees that we encountered were polite, Professional and went out of their way to be helpful. Like most attractions the concessions prices are inflated. $3.00 for a Bottle of water is in line with most other attractions. All total we spent almost two hours here and had a most enjoyable experience.
Garry Thompson — Google review
This is absolutely a must if you are near by. We went on a Saturday morning with perfect weather and not busy at all. We road the gondola over to the other side first then it was a down hill hike to the bridge to cross back over. Once on the other side we did the swing that swings you out and over the canyon. The walk back over the bridge is breathtaking experience. The bridge does move a little side to side once you are in the middle. And the wood planks are a little loose for a better experience. They have a great Cafe and food court and a gift shop as well. Great facilities (Bathrooms, food, drinks, gifts, attractions, and lots to do) like I said this is a must go to.
Mike George — Google review
I went to the Royal Gorge in the '70 when I was just a kid. It's obviously changed since then (fire) but in general it's a long bridge over a very scenic gorge and was enjoyable to walk across. I don't agree with the fee to do this though, but I guess it's private and they can charge what they want. The parking is free though.
We got there a few minutes before it opened and there weren't a lot of other people, which was nice. We talked about doing the zip line but when we saw that it was only a single ride across the gorge, we didn't think it was worth the money. There is a lot of walking, and it can be very steep on some walkways that have clearly seen better days. We walked across, then walked up the hill on the other side to the free gondola and rode back. The scenery is gorgeous and you can spend as much time as you want. We also sat through a short film and looked at the history (all on the other side from main entrance) and these were nice. We did not eat or buy anything beside popcorn for the film.
I'm glad I went, as I've fondly remember going with my family in the '70's. Just too bad it is expensive for a family to experience.
Lisa H — Google review
A fun place to take out-of-state guests.
Ever want to induce vertigo for the family member you don't like while making memories everyone else will enjoy forever? Or are you an adrenaline junkie who loves dangling by a small rope over a huge drop? Either way, this place has you covered!
The view in late spring / all summer is gorgeous. It feels like you can see beyond the horizon from the bridge.
Walk over the historic bridge or enjoy a brief gondola ride to the other side where the brave few among your group can zipline across or swing out over the canyon.
Like your feet on the ground? Grab a snack and let the young ones run wild in the large park or go in circles on the merry-go-round. Adult beverages are served on-site to make the natural beauty just that much more enjoyable.
This is a must-see destination for those visiting the state or even just locals in the area for a weekend.
Nova L — Google review
An awesome experience! The bridge was a little scary to cross but well worth it. A quick tip that I wish we knew: the bridge opens at 9am but the gondola doesn’t start until 10. So get there at 9:50 and take the gondola across first and walk the bridge back because then everything is downhill walking wise. Also buy tickets online in advance to save $2 per person.
Justin Idle — Google review
2nd time visiting this remarkable bucket list item. THIS TIME we were able to purchase tickets and go through the various shops, movie auditorium for the 17 minute program.
We elected to "walk" to the south side across the bridge and look down at the canyon. AMAZING views on both sides of the bridge lined with state flags. Wow, not for the faint of heart and not in shape people. There are some super steep winding grades going UP the hills to get to the attractions.
Took the Gondolas back to the north.
To me, the price of $70.00 for 2 adults is too much. (minus 1 star)
DreamRider — Google review
I've had the opportunity to visit several times, but this time of year was my favorite (September). The weather was perfect, not hot/cold nor too windy, and it was not crowded. We actually got to ride the gondolas this time, and it was superb. Everything from the views, bridge, and educational video made it a great family experience. So, regardless of the time of year, I hope you make time to visit and don't forget your comfy shoes.
Cynthia Escobedo — Google review
Just spent an absolutely wonderful day at the Gorge. It is so much more than a bridge and worth every penny. The staff were so helpful and polite. We visited the restaurant/cafe located by the gondola and enjoyed both the food and hot drinks. We could and would have stayed longer but rain and wind stopped play. Thanks to all the staff for making everyone's day a memorable one.
Steve Walsh — Google review
We drove out to the Royal Gorge from Colorado Springs, about an hour drive. The drive and scenery were awesome. We enjoyed the Royal Gorge. We rode the gondola across and then walked back across the bridge. Very nice, well worth the $30 each.
Roll Tide 55 — Google review
Fun place to spend time appreciating the scenery. The rides were a cool experience, and to walk across the bridge and seeing and standing on a feat achieved a long time ago was amazing. Friendly staff to make the experience even better. Must visit if your close by
ngawang sherpa — Google review
The day we picked to visit was pretty miserable weather wise. We arrived a few days after a monster snowstorm. It was roughly 38 degrees with 40mph wind gusts. My husband paid about $130 for the four of us to visit. Unfortunately, to my surprise, there was loads of snow on the bridge. I understand it cannot be plowed because it would damage the wood. There was about 2 feet of snow and we were walking in tire ruts that were partially cleared at best. We had to sign waivers prior to entry. Considering the weather and conditions were poor.... And the add-ons (zip line, gondola, and swing) were closed, perhaps you could offer a discounted entry fee. $35 a person to walk back and forth across a bridge is a rip off. We had a high interest in visiting this historical man made achievement despite the adverse conditions and overpriced entry fee. It is truly an engineering marvel and the views were breathtaking.
Jessica Westfall — Google review
The ride coming here is very scenic and memorable. The view is very beautiful and incredible. The long on the bridge is very scenic and all of the state flags. The zip lining was great and it’s a good way of seeing all of it. Location and parking is easy to find.
Darshanie Dyal — Google review
The Royal Gorge Bridge & Park is a renowned tourist attraction located near Cañon City, Colorado, USA. Spanning the Arkansas River, the Royal Gorge Bridge is one of the highest suspension bridges globally, standing at a height of 956 feet (291 meters) above the river below. Completed in 1929, the bridge offers breathtaking panoramic views of the rugged Royal Gorge and surrounding Rocky Mountains.
Aside from the iconic bridge, the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park features various attractions and activities. Visitors can experience the thrill of walking across the suspension bridge, which has steel cables anchored in massive granite cliffs. The park also offers an aerial gondola ride, providing a unique perspective of the gorge.
Additionally, the park includes a scenic railway that travels along the canyon rim, offering spectacular vistas. Adventure enthusiasts can partake in ziplining and other outdoor activities, making the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park a destination that combines natural beauty with thrilling adventures. The park's location within the stunning Colorado landscape adds to its allure as a popular destination for tourists and nature enthusiasts.
Charlie — Google review
Definitely glad we made the trip here. Breathtaking views. The whole park was very well laid out. We took a ride on the gondola. Definitely suggest it as you can get some amazing photos. Also DONT look down between the boards on the bridge 😅
Well worth the cost of the pass. Make sure to get a pic with your states flag while on the bridge!
James Anthony — Google review
Fun and great experience. Nice and accomidating staff. Wheelchair accessible gondola and other parts of the park. Food is expensive and average quality so plan to eat before or after.
The Historic Arkansas Riverwalk is a 1.3 mile loop on a 32-acre urban waterfront in downtown Pueblo. Completed in October 2000, it features family-oriented activities and events, such as boat rides and concerts. The walkway has many historic buildings along the river, which was returned to its original location after being diverted in 1921 due to a devastating flood that destroyed Pueblo.
It's more than a 1.3 mile loop on a 32 acres urban waterfront. The walkway was completed in October 2000, in which the Arkansas River was returned to its historic location in downtown Pueblo. It was diverted from downtown in 1921 after the devastating flood that destroyed Pueblo. It's a beautiful walk along the river and amongst many historic buildings
Lynn Drake — Google review
Very nice area to walk in. It’s clean and well maintained. Several places to east along the way. Nice public art to view. Distances noted along walkway to support walkers. Beautifully done. In late morning there were a good number of people out, but was not at all crowded.
Linda VanBuren — Google review
The historic riverwalk was really nice just to walk about at 8:00am in the morning, as was the adjacent downtown area. So many sights to see along the way. There were so many trees and lanterns that made it feel cozy and inviting. It is a shame that the water was not filled, though I am sure some of it might out of fear that the pipes would freeze in wintry weather.
Isaiah Schindler — Google review
When family or friends come see us we take them down by Arkansas river and Pueblo loves it. Most taking the grandkids down their around 5-6pm they can see the wild animals
pauline turner — Google review
We loved this walk along the river. There are so many statues, sculptures, informative signs, and pretty artwork along the trail. You can take a boat tour along the river or rent a peddle boat and cruise around the little pond there. There's so much along the way, it was so fun. It was crowded when we went, but nothing too bad and it was the Fourth of July weekend also.
Diana Orr — Google review
We were here in the morning and there were only a few other people walking around. It was February so the water was drained and there were no boats going. We still had a really good time. The kids loved all the different statues.
Christel Fox — Google review
Always a great time going down to the river walk! Me and my dog we love the the walk on a clean sidewalk, we love watching the ducks. Once in a blue moon you'll even see a beaver in there!
Deric ?sandyeggoboy? Stowell — Google review
Great and quiet place without crowds. We enjoyed ourselves here. No wait anywhere during the peak season is a big plus. Beautiful design along the river walk. Very relaxing and lots of picture points. One point deducted is because we had a hard time finding an open public restroom anywhere around the riverwalk. The bathroom doors were all locked for some reason while we were there. We ended up purchasing some drinks in order to use the bathroom in a restaurant nearby. So a heads up for others.
Rui Zhu — Google review
Two Aussies doing a roadtrip through usa. Wife and I found this place very lovely. Visited today (Wednesday 3rd August 2023), no crowds, pleasant wall and great sculptures to be looked at during the walk. Walk itself is about 1mile but all flat. If you like l, you can take a boat ride around the canal
Jason Chapman — Google review
Fun little downtown area to walk around at. Several sculptures of animals and people are scattered around the river. Not a long walk by any means but it is cute. Lots of restaurants along the route as well. It will most likely take you less than an hour to walk if you don’t stop often.
Aliza Brown — Google review
The water is gone in the winter - so no boat tours or paddle boats (and sometimes there's a bulldozer scooping up icy mud from the bottom) but it's still a nice walk, not too big to do all in one go and lots of art to see and a few restaurants. Reminds me more of Oklahoma City's than San Antonino's. Extra charming at night!
Sara Beth Wade — Google review
Very clean and well kept riverwalk. Live music at nearby restaurants on the Riverwalk. One of my favorite walks. My family and I really enjoy visiting Pueblo.
Alzira Escobar-Pruitt — Google review
The wife is from Pueblo and I am not a fan of visiting...it's a pretty run-down city and has crime issues. However, with things like the Riverwalk maybe things are turning around. The place is an absolutely stunning place to take a walk. Very well kept and maintained and if you were brought blindfolded you would NEVER know you were in Pueblo. Worth the trip to the city for this alone! Sadly most of my photos are on my camera but here are a couple I took on my phone.
Always one of my favorite places in Canon. The road is pretty narrow and steep, but once you get to the top the view is amazing (especially at night!). Highly recommend anyone passing through to check it out.
Alli M — Google review
This short but exhilarating free drive is located only an hour southwest from Colorado Springs. We drove it during sundown and was not disappointed by the views. You are literally driving along a narrow ridge line. There are several spots to pull off and park. There are also several hikes at the top where you can walk along the ridge with amazing 360 views of Cañon City and the mountains. Do it at night and you will get beautiful views of the city lights. Overall the drive is super short but if you stop and do some of the hikes it can take around an hour depending on speed and frequency of stops. Definitely a quick must do if you’re visiting COS, Cañon City or Pueblo.
Aliza Brown — Google review
If going to the Royal Gorge Bridge, definitely take some time to check out this drive. They are some amazing views along with a few spaces to stop and explore. Be aware that this is a one-way road, and you’ll drive with caution. Just don’t look down too much when driving.
Luke Ahn — Google review
My husband & I drove Skyline Drive in September after going to the gorge. Wow! This little drive is terrifying. The double drop-offs were a total trip. I don't know why but it felt like we could just fall off the edge of the earth. Exhilarating. We didn't stop but it was only because I just wanted it to be over. I was freaking out a little. We want to go back and do it again. We'll definitely get out of the car to look around a little more on the next trip.
Tia Pirkl — Google review
Great place to go and get a new view. This has a great view of the lights during the sun set and night time. Also a grat place to hike and hang out with people.
Sam Morgan — Google review
Definitely don't take your eyes off the road. It's a narrow road with steep drop offs. The road was built in 1905 by inmate labor. It's a one way road that rises 800 feet above surrounding terrain with some beautiful views that only the passengers can see.
Lyndee D. — Google review
Just go....
I'm afraid the drive on roads like this...not afraid to be a passenger....
If your related to mountain goat like some people I know.....you will love this....
Look close you can see dino tracks....they are up on a ledge.....use your imagination....its the underside of Tracks....cool little cave too...
Can't imagine how those prisoners made this road so many years ago...
Thankfully it's a one way road....
If your young.....and in shape....you coukd leave car at bottom....and just hike it....
Fran C — Google review
This place is great and it’s absolutely free. Super short simple drive from Pueblo, the views are amazing the parking is ample even when it’s busy and it’s truly unique. Take your time and pull
Over often to really get in the view. At the top there are some light hiking trails so you can climb even higher.
Michele Buckles — Google review
A one way road that goes up a steep ridge that offers some parking spots at the top, about halfway into the drive, in that area there is also some access to trails that go around the area. Overall the drive and experience was worth it and offers great views of the Canon City and the surrounding areas. The landscapes in this area of the state are really pretty. This drive does not take very long at all, if you didn’t stop at all it would take less than 15 minutes I’d say. So stop by and do it if on the way to the royal gorge or driving into canon city.
Nick Walters — Google review
Short & sweet drive with great views of Canon City. It’s a must-do for anyone who loves heights + scenic panoramas. There’s multiple pull-offs + a few short “trails”/walking paths to explore as well.
Christine Billie — Google review
Free drive over the mountaintop, not too narrow for a regular sized car. There are stopping points at least two. But you kind of drive up to the skyline start to go up the mountain, and drive down to the other end that winds around to exit into a neighborhood. No turn around point. So you pull in and you have to drive across to exit. It’s not as scary as it sounds in my opinion.
K C — Google review
HA - Yup, this is a bucket list item. The 2 1/2 mile UP the mountain and down is a GREAT view of the entire town and surrounding mountains. WOW.. Like others have mentioned there isn't ANY room for errors. I recently found out that this skyline drive was actually built by inmates from Canon City Prison. VERY COOL.
First time, I drove this on my BMW 1200 GSA motorbike and this time I drove this in my F450 with the wife on board. Only ran into 1 issue where someone parked on the road and I couldn't get around until they moved. Nonetheless, the F450 is 19.5 Ft long. Restrictions on this road are no vehicles over 20ft and speed limit is 15 MPH. Take the trip, you won't be disappointed.
DreamRider — Google review
It’s an amazing road to drive on in the beautiful canon city. It really felt like driving on the sky. Narrow road is worth trying. You can also go for a walk or jog. Highly recommend this place it has some breathtaking views from the top
Biswanath Das — Google review
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4.5
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Skyline Dr, Cañon City, CO 81212, USA
24
Hot Springs Stables
Stable
Outdoor Activities
Horseback Riding Tours
Truly one of the most amazing experiences we’ve had in our lives. KC was the kindest and most gentle guide. He filled our hearts full to the brim with this awesome adventure at sunset. We crossed rivers, trotted, and went up and down steep inclines. Seriously cant express how great our time here was. If you book, ask for KC!🤍
Lauren Phariss — Google review
My mom had a great ride here. She's been riding for a long time, but she still enjoyed the one hour ride. It wasn't just a boring trail ride where the horses know where they're going and don't really care what you want. She said they went across the river a few times, saw great views of the mountains, and had a very pleasant time. She loved the wranglers who were with them. We booked online and had no trouble. Everything worked out perfectly. Highly recommend!
Valerie Miller — Google review
We had such an amazing time at Hot Springs Stables. The owner and the ranch hands were so welcoming and made our experience one to remember. 2 hours was not long enough, we will definitely going back to do a half day or even a full day ride with them soon. This is a must stop if you are in the area.
Mike Cignarale — Google review
Me and my two kiddos (7 and 10) came for the sunset ride and it was incredible! Our guide, Kaiden (Caiden?), was laid back and friendly and made the kids feel safe and ensured we all had fun! We were only supposed to walk, but we got to do quite a bit of trotting once the boys were comfortable and it made our whole trip!
We saw deer and a coyote, got to cross the river more than once, and had some absolutely stunning views.
Would highly recommend to anyone!
Christina LaRosa — Google review
Definitely a must experience!!!! The owner was very welcoming and knowledgeable. Our wrangler was great! Cory went above and beyond to make us feel comfortable and confident from start to end.
Beautiful views....and great memories were created! Thank you, @coloradotailrides.com
Robert Torres — Google review
If you are looking for something close by to the area, go horseback riding! Our guide was AMAZING at pointing out view points and give us facts around the area. They help by picking the horse that suits you best! We loved our 2 hour ride & felt very comfortable through out it! Definitely worth it all!
Albanie Hersh — Google review
Great experience. Staff was awesome, horses were well trained. We took the 60 minute trail and we got about 70 minutes out of it. Facility is small but clean. It looks like they can handle pretty large parties and have multiple trail lengths ( 1, 2 hr as well as 3/4 and full day). Scenery made it worth it all. Great views!
Tyler Dixon — Google review
Great staff, very pleasant and give good advice. The horses are well trained and clearly well cared for. I’m a first time rider at age 46. I went on the 1 hour trail ride and it was a great experience.
Jenny Crane — Google review
We did the 3/4 day ride. Absolutely beautiful trail. It was a bit nerve wracking in a few spots and I am an experienced rider. I had inexperienced riders that made it but there were times their nerves almost bested them. The horses behaved for the most part and we all enjoyed it. The waterfall was gorgeous. The wranglers were great! I highly recommend but be prepared for sore muscles.
I also recommend getting there early. We arrived 15 minutes early and still did not get to the trail until an hour after our initial appointment time due to them needing to prep the horses selected for each individual and their experience level. We never felt rushed on the ride though. The wranglers went at our pace. Again, I highly recommend!
Tierney Stigall — Google review
What a great place! I did the 2-hour sunset ride and had an amazing time. Our wrangler, Jess, was friendly, inviting, and easygoing. The trail was fun, the horses were kind and well-trained, the scenery was beautiful. And can't forget the barn cats!
No complaints here.
Liam Moore — Google review
We took a ride with The Princeton Stables yesterday and what a fantastic ride it was!! We had the best guide ever in Dave and the horses were amazing! We rode on Moose, Rodeo, and Clifford and wish we could take them home with us! The scenery was perfect and crossing the river was so cool!!! Thanks again to our guide Dave and Ralph for taking us on this ride!!! We’ll be back!!
Travis Blackwell — Google review
Dave and Dillion did a great job for our 2 hr ride. They did a great job on instructions and were very social during the ride. The ride was fun and exciting. Domino and Feather were great horses to ride. Highly recommend! This was a very relaxing few hours with beautiful scenery.
April Hess — Google review
We had Casey as our guide. He was great! We did the waterfall ride. If you haven't been on a horse before, I wouldn't take this. There are some very small trails going up the mountain and it could scare some people. If you have riden before, it's a great view! The horses we took were great. Thanks Casey for a great time.
Robbie and Kristen
robert dotson — Google review
Great 2 hour trail ride with Corey. Really enjoyed our horses, Trigger and Chile. Look forward to being in the area again to book a longer ride!
Caleb Collins — Google review
This was an amazing ride! We did the 3/4 day ride. It was beautiful and the horses were great! Our guide, Casey was fantastic!!
Dabecka Kirk — Google review
We had the best time on our 2 hour ride. Lee, our wrangler, was such a wonderful guide - personable, curious, and knowledgeable about both horses and the terrain. The trail offered stunning views. We would absolutely do this again! Highly recommend!
Allison Buzard — Google review
My wife and I were the only ones on our ride and we went with Corey and he was great. He was easy to talk to throughout, answered questions, and helped out as needed. The route was absolutely beautiful. We went up and down the mountains and through water. As semi beginners, two hours were plenty bc we were sore at the end but it was a really awesome time with our horses, our guide, and the views.
Ross Browning — Google review
Hands down the BEST trail ride ever! We did the 3/4 day ride up to the waterfall with a packed lunch and the views were breathtaking! KC aka the good Kevin but AMAZING!! He made the whole experience unforgettable. I can't wait to come back and do a ride when there is snow on the ground. It was about 2 hours from Denver but SO worth the drive. The views on the way were unbelievable as well which made the time go by. I would 1000% recommend to everyone!
Lizz Kilby — Google review
I had the best time yesterday! My son and husband didn’t want to join me so I went on a group adventure 2 hour ride solo with several other families. Amazing views, sweet tour guides there’s nothing like this anywhere else, I’ve done several trail rides in my time but this was by far the best. The trail guides were so good with the children on the tour AJ let them talk her head off and she even took pictures of me for me! The owner was a sweetheart! All around amazing!
Mallory Hall — Google review
I had a great experience and can not wait to come back again and do a longer ride. The staff was so nice and helpful in getting my mother on the horse and feeling comfortable. She wasn't able to complete the ride but we consider it a win and she was able to get it knocked off her bucket list on her birthday. Jessie is so sweet I enjoyed chatting with her and was pleased to know she is and knows horsemanship. Horses are beautiful and well trained, taken care of in my opinion. ❤️i rode charming ✌️ 🐎
That's Tonya — Google review
This was such an amazing place, both the Ranch and the land we traveled around. My daughter and I plus the family had so much fun riding and it was the best time riding horses with her. Dave was so great at leading and providing a great experience. He is a great rider also! Great to see how welcome the guides make you feel. They'll do anything to improve your ride or teach you how to get to know your horses. Top notch job Dave and The crew. Can't forget the young guys and all great wranglers we met and helped us get going. I highly recommend this place and we will be back.
Pete Chilimindris — Google review
This place is a rare gem! The owner (who looks like Sam Elliot) was so kind and has been doing this business since he was 17! Everything is thoughtfully curated. They choose your horse based on your skill level. The cowboys + wranglers were very helpful and told amazing dad jokes. They accommodated everyone from children to adults very well. I highly recommend for an authentic trail riding experience!!
Gold Mine Tours Inc. offers group tours of its underground facility, including tram rides and exhibits. The hour-long tour takes visitors 1000 feet below the surface of a former operational gold mine, providing an educational experience for all ages. Knowledgeable guides, who are experienced miners themselves, share insights into mining techniques and demonstrate historical equipment used in the industry. Visitors can explore the property while waiting for the tour to start and enjoy informative storytelling from guides like Harley.
An absolutely amazing experience to be able to go down 1000ft into the earth! The tour guides are extremely knowledgeable on all that is mining and will happily answer any questions that you may have. It was a fun adventure and it was so cool how the guides gave us demonstrations on the mining equipment. I Highly recommend this tour.
Caleb Foltz — Google review
I visited the Mollie Kathleen mine tour in May of 2023. I thought it was great, with lots of educational demonstrations and explanations as well as just really cool being in tunnels that deep underground. Heads up that the trip down is cramped, so just be prepared; though they do warn you about it ahead of time on the website.
If you visit, I strongly suggest after the tour going across the street to the heritage center and seeing the scale model of the Mollie Kathleen mine; it really gives you a nice sense of scale for the tour.
Corey Freeman — Google review
Best tour ever!!! Sara was our tour guide and she is amazing! Fun, knowledgeable, and knows everything about the mine. We are definitely going back with our kids next time. Thank you so much Sara and all other staff that was there!
Buckaroo — Google review
Well worth it. It's a tight fit in the elevator! Literally front to back, shoulder to shoulder, but a quick ride down. There were lots of cool demonstrations of the tools used when the mine was active. Easy walk. Short ride on an original underground air powered train. There was also a lot of interesting history and facts during the tour. Quick ride back to the top. Coolest mine tour I've ever done.
G Lem — Google review
From being up in one of the most beautiful places in the mountains, to the some of the nicest people. This tour was in the top three of adventures on this trip. Start off by being put into a 9 miner lift, then dropping down 1000’ into the mine, walking in the steps of the miners while your tour guide is a miner. Learning the history and seeing it in action will give you a better understanding of how important mining is to your life.
Shannon Felder — Google review
Highly recommend to anyone in the area! Definitely one of the coolest interactive tours that I have ever been to! The tour guide was awesome! He was very funny & informative. He gave lots of time for questions and educational information on the history of mining. Going down the mine shaft was a bit scary for me just because of the confined area on the way down but it opens up once in the tunnels. It is safe and honestly well worth the money! 10 out of 10 would go back
jacqueline donahue — Google review
Parking to super close to tour. Need more bathroom stalls. Fun to walk around property while waiting for tour to start. Tour guide Harley was the best! He was informative, patient w the little ones and a kind story-teller. Hope you get him as your guide! If your claustrophobic the mine shaft that takes you down 1000 ft in total darkness will get you. But if you hold a loved one's hand and just breathe slowly...you should withstand the 2 mins.
Patsy Gonzales — Google review
First tour down in to a mine. Was a great time and very informative. Well worth the price of admission and the trip just to see it. Staff was very friendly and knowledgeable. Cripple Creek is just below the mine and your able to over look a working mine next door. Also you can start the phantom canyon road from here which will take you about 2 hours to travel.
David Whitehead — Google review
This is a very cool and educational experience for all ages and will be unforgettable. This tour is about an hour long and will take you 1000 feet below the surface of what was once an operational gold mine. Each of the tour guides are all miners themselves and /hat gives them so much knowledge to share. They explain the types and ways of mining through the years and demonstrate actual equipment used. Today (Oct 15th) was the last day of the season for tours until next Spring. *Also fyi, service dogs are not allowed on the tour.
Mark Manwell — Google review
our guide was such a blast and the tour was awesome. these guys are so awesome and the admission price is well worth it to give these hard workers a living wage!! a whole bunch of sweethearts just doing what they love! was so freakin fun and one of the coolest things i’ve ever done! don’t want to give TOO much away, you gotta go see for yourself!
Scout Grove — Google review
Definitely a must do if you're in the Colorado Springs/Cripple Creek area! Ben our tour guide was awesome and will explain everything to you about the mine. You can tell he really enjoys what he does! We felt it was a really good value for what you get out of it!
Slay — Google review
This place is absolutely amazing! Our guide (Sarah) was extremely knowledgeable & super friendly. She made the entire experience come to life.
We were a little reluctant to go but when we left we were so happy that we did.
Wear at least a T-shirt & shorts because my son wore his tank top and was cold. You can always bring a little sweatshirt too just in case.
Great place & a place where history comes to life.
Mark Price — Google review
This is a must tour. One of the best Mine tours I have been on - I have been on 6 different ones before. Teenagers loved it and small kids. Lots of information - love the small group tours. Wow what the miners of 1800s did to get this gold. Very safe feeling in mine.
Karen Bennett — Google review
What an amazing place! It is definitely worth the drive up there. Sarah - our guide - is the sweetest person, she’s so knowledgeable, professional & friendly! Don’t worry, if you’re claustrophobic, it’s not that bad. It’s a 2 min elevator ride to the bottom, and the tour down there is just outstanding. This gold mine has been operational since 1891! It’s cold up there, so keep yourself warm.
A Sabbagh — Google review
We did the Tour. We were lowered 1000ft down and did a 1hr walk through. We seen how kids worked the mines at 7yrs old to old men. The old machinery was shown to us on how it worked..etc.. Good Tour
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is an award-winning zoo with more than 750 animals across varied terrain. It is only ten minutes from the resort and guarantee genuine animal interactions.
This zoo is so good! If you're local I would definitely recommend a membership as it's a much better deal. We come every couple weeks and the kids are never bored. It's a bit of a hike in places so wear comfy shoes and I always bring my stroller for the younger kids and to pile our stuff on. Feeding the giraffes is always a highlight. Parking is free and they have a few options for eating but we always pack a lunch. Will definitely be returning often!
Melissa Bettencourt — Google review
Best zoo I've ever been to! The animal enclosures are large with shade and running water. You get to interact with the animals not just stare at them from a distance. Feeding the giraffes was amazing! My kids were excited to stand right next to penguins, wallaby and feed tropical birds. The best part is that the zoo has a timed entry which really helps control the crowd size, we went on Memorial weekend and had zero lines.
Terri A — Google review
I've been to the zoo 3 times in the past year. It's hands down the best zoo I've ever visited. The giraffe feeding experience is so exciting for all ages. But they have several other animal feeding experiences as well. They teach you a lot about conservation with their amazing staff and daily demonstrations. Time entry also keeps the crowds to a minimum so you can get up close with the animals. The Wallabies hopping around at your feet is one of my favorite attractions. And their Primate area is top notch. With informative employees all around to answer questions and teach you more about conservation. The views are breathtaking, and the food is great as well. I recommend the BBQ place first, but the others are also good 👍 and don't forget to visit the Shrine of the sun after the zoo, it's worth the drive up and included in your entry to the zoo.
Tara Holcomb — Google review
Fantastic zoo! The giraffe exhibit is my favorite part! Getting to feed the giraffes is such a cool experience! But be sure to walk around the exhibit to feed the giraffes away from the entrance! They want lettuce too! Lots of walking at this zoo, and a decent amount walking up hill. Brings lots of water!! And sun hat and sunscreen highly recommended!
Cara Conway — Google review
Incredible zoo experience! The exhibits present in a more natural environment being on the side of the mountain. All the zoo staff we have encountered have been very friendly and knowledgeable. The food court is awesome! Very easy to navigate and great prices for what is offered. The sky ride is a must as long as you're not afraid of heights. The view at the top is absolutely beautiful. The HUGE win associated with this zoo is the ability to feed the giraffes and have that interactive experience. The kiddos absolutely love it and adults do too!
Jessi K — Google review
We stopped here after flying in from FL and it was such a beautiful fun zoo. They had so much to offer and it was a very pleasant place to visit. The animals were so well cared and beautiful. A little hard to walk up and down the hills for this FL girl but we just loved it and took our time.
Angie Ellermeyer — Google review
If you’re looking for up in your face animal experience’s, this is definitely it!!!! I’ve never experienced anything to this caliber and I fell in love with Cheyenne mountain zoo!!! Absolutely family friendly for every age, and lots to explore in a day here!!!! It is on a mountain, so expect trekking steep pathways. I can even begin to talk about the views all around!!! Every where you look is just stunning. Easily the best zoo I’ve ever been to and now have high expectations moving forward.
Ty Humphreys — Google review
COZY AND UNIQUE LITTLE ZOO! LOVE GIRAFFES? MUST SEE!
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is a little out of the way but well worth it. I've been to tons of zoos but this one was unique in its location and a far more relaxing experience than some of the larger zoos in the states.
If you love Giraffes, this is a must stop. There are eateries on site with amazing views from decks and a one-of-a-kind view from the gandola lift up and down the mountain.
surgioramon — Google review
Amazing zoo experience. Just WOW to the people that trained the Grizzly bears. They are so trained and is so fun to watch. I felt like a kid watching that. Besides that organization in the zoo is perfect. The water fans are amazing for this summer season. The feeding experiences are with it. Highly recommend
Cristhian C — Google review
I loved this zoo! What a beautiful day it was. I enjoyed feeding the giraffes ($3 or $5 bundles). They've got other animals you can feed as well. It was a little crowded today. Definitely recommend it to others. Parking is free. Remember to purchase your tickets in advance too.
Lily — Google review
I am only giving 3 out of 5 because they have the sky ride. That’s a major bonus. If it didn’t, I would give 2/5 based on animals and presentation. Staff was nice and helpful. Also, you can feed the giraffes, hippos, and elephants during certain times of the day which was pretty cool. You can pet the goats and giraffes fairly easily. It is high elevation so required comfortable shoes. You can pay $3 for all shuttle.
Shaneequa Henderson — Google review
It was one of the best zoos I have ever visited. I like that they have a set number of allowed visitors per day, which helps to keep the zoo less crowded and allows for a better quality exploration process. You definitely want to buy tickets in advance because there is no chance you get them at the gate. I have to say, tickets are very reasonably priced for a large zoo like that. Plus, they have military and senior discount.
We ended up walking around the zoo for hours. There is so much to see and do! Excellent location for the whole family. You can feed giraffes and budgies, admire elephants, and rhinos, enjoy the picturesque views of Colorado Springs and Cheyenne Mountain during the Sky Ride, and much more.
Olena V — Google review
This is one of the best zoos we have visited. The fact that is is built on a mountain was amazing. We went on 10/8/2023, the weather was great and the animals were active. Their enclosures seemed like their natural habitats. But even if the animals were not as active, the scenic views are breath taking. Love how they made look out spots to take the sites in. I have already recommended this place to other friends and family making a trip to Colorado Springs. We are from Bryan, Texas and would definitely go again when we make a trip back that way.
Mike H. — Google review
This zoo is one of the best I have been to. It’s built on the side of a mountain and it is so beautiful. The highlight is the 16 member giraffe tower which you can purchase lettuce to feed them anytime from opening to closing. Plus check out the animal encounters, they are fantastic! Some of the animals will even paint you a picture during the encounter. I highly recommend them. Check their website for details. You can easily spend the day.
Linny — Google review
Was great to be able to finally visit after hearing wonderful reports of the experience.
Visited with a toddler and a 7 year old who loved the experience especially feeding the giraffes (take cash for the lettuce) and the budgies!
If you have a toddler bring a STROLLER or something they can be carried with or your biceps are going to get a workout at altitude!
For any South Africans feeling homesick you can see the penguins from Boulder Beach!
Greg Muller — Google review
It is very windy near the entrance but gets better as you go. The zoo is 6,000 feet above sea level, so dress warm 😀 gloves are a must, especially for the little ones. Overall, the zoo is very nice and well built they also have a nice selection of places to eat and shop. We will be back on a warmer day 😀.
Brandon Tindle — Google review
The thing that sets the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo apart from other zoos is the number of ways you can get up close and interact with the animals. Most animals have feeding experiences (giraffes, tigers, elephants, goats, chickens, birds) that are reasonably priced compared to similar experiences at other zoos. There are also multiple ways to interact with the environment as you make your way around (two interactive plays areas, beavers dens, caves, large sculptures to climb). It felt like equal parts modern art gallery and zoo in places and made for a great immersive experience. Many of the animals were active while we were there and staff went out of their way to interact with guests and answer questions about the animals.
The only underwhelming exhibit, IMO, was the reptile and bird house. It had more of a pet store vibe looking at the snakes. For how well designed the rest of the exhibits are, I felt like they could do more in there.
If you want to buy food they offer a decent selection of standard zoo food (burgers, pizza, hot dogs, ice cream), although prepare to pay zoo prices. I appreciated that they sold specialty coffee drinks at the Cozy Goat that were decent. We went at lunch time, and while it was hectic and busy, the line moved quickly.
Be prepared to walk! Lots of incline walking because the zoo is in the side of the mountain. I loved the unique views this provided and the extra exercise, but for those not able to walk far, they offer a shuttle around for $3/day.
The ski lift wasn't operating when we went, but looks fun! There's also a carousel to ride for a fee.
Dana H — Google review
Seriously the best Zoo we have been too. You get up close and personal with a lot of the animals. They take great care of all their animals and it's a very clean zoo. My favorite is feeding the giraffes and seeing the penguins up close! We are locals and bought a yearly family pass because the savings are amazing and we get to visit often! Well worth the trip, even in the winter!
Haley Benardino — Google review
This zoo is definitely one of a kind! We got to feed the giraffe and walk up the mountain for amazing views. You could also feed elephants during specific times, but we missed that. There are also restaurants here to grab a quick bite or something to drink. Word of advice is to dress comfortably and bring your own water! Sunscreen is a must and definitely bring sunglasses and / or a hat!
Mae Bangtan — Google review
This was the best zoo I have ever visited. Of course the giraffes were amazing. (There are so many and many people fees them right by where by food but walk down and around the circle and they are on both sides hungry). There fans and water stations everywhere. Kids 4-16 loved it. Each animal area has a "play area" like a hippo that sprays water, jungle gym by monkeys, alligator play. The interactive place has a 🦥 sloth just hanging above your head!
VERY IMPORTANT- it is a timed ticket entry. We arrived at 10 and were not able to get ticketed entry until 1. We went to old Town Colorado Springs and walked around and got ice-cream. (Recommend getting tickets ahead of time). We brought our wagon full of drinks and snacks in a bag and no one said anything. Highly recommend.
Kimberly Sober — Google review
The zoo is an absolute delignt!
The variety of species on display was truly impressive. It was a joy to observe these incredible creatures up close and learn about their behaviors and unique characteristics.
The staff at the zoo were friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate.
To top it all off, the zoo provided a clean and well-maintained environment for everyone to enjoy. The pathways were well-marked, making it easy to navigate, and there were plenty of rest areas and refreshment options available.
Inna S — Google review
Fantastic zoo. I've been to both the Omaha and San Diego zoos and while those are also great, there was something special about this one. It felt much more intimate than those. The layout of the zoo is great and you really felt like it was an experience. It being on the side of a beautiful mountain certainly helped the ambiance. It felt more natural than most zoos. Highly recommend.
Dave Slosar — Google review
What a great experience! We came late Sunday afternoon to fill our day in CO Springs and this place did not disappoint. The cold kept most of the crowds away so it felt like we had the place to ourselves and it seemed like the animals loved the lower temps too because every enclosure had active and moving animals. The indoor buildings were spaced perfectly that when we felt chilled we could duck right in and warm up. The staff was also very friendly and helped me get some great selfies with the penguins while they were out too!
Bryce H — Google review
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is such a unique and beautiful zoo to visit. It is the only zoo that is built upon a mountain side. This makes this particular zoo very unique because of the elevation change that you get when visiting the zoo. You can be higher on the mountain side and look over the rest of the zoo sitting below you. They have a lot of very spacious and well put together enclosures with many different and unique species of animals. I would highly recommend visiting the giraffe feeding area, where they is a tall boardwalk setup that you can walk around and be at the giraffes height and feed them by hand. I've visited many zoos and this one is probably the most unique and cool zoo to check out.
B A — Google review
I've been to several zoos but never expected one so nice at this high elevation! It's very well maintained and has more giraffes than any zoo in the country! My granddaughter loved feeding them! So did my wife! You can easily spend several hours there, and there are several places to hide in the shade on a hot summer day. This place is really worth seeing!
Kelly Smith — Google review
Great Mountain zoo. A new experience! Views are awesome. It’s at around 6700 feet and tucked in Colorado Springs. Tickets around $30. Shrine was under renovation so could not visit. They could have put that up on website. Saw many Giraffes, elephants, couple of mountain lions, and variety of animals. Plenty of restrooms. The whole park is few miles of walk.
Karan Goenka — Google review
Went to the Electric Safari and wow it is so beautiful! They had an amazing drone show that was so cool! One of my favorite zoos. I love that you can interact with the animals. Feeding the giraffes is my favorite part :) Highly recommend going there anytime. But the Electric Safari was so much fun.
Nicole Barnhart (SailorJuicy) — Google review
This zoo is AMAZING! 5 star experience. Beautiful, clean, lots of interactive areas, clean bathrooms at every turn. Reasonable food prices. Very active animals and friendly staff. Feeding the giraffes was so fun and the first thing you walk in to upon entry. We’ve been to several larger zoos but this one takes the cake. Winding paths up and down the mountain made it unique to other zoos.
Jessica Solis — Google review
I've been to Cheyenne Mountain Zoo a total of four times while I was stationed at Fort Carson, CO. I got the privilege of visiting the wonderfully cared for animals on Christmas day 2023 during the beautifully orchestrated Electric Safari event; I've been to two Electric Moonlight events; and one "regular" visit with my mother. Nothing is "regular" about this zoo!! Every time I got to visit, it was a new experience! I highly recommend a membership, and the advance ticket system works splendidly! All the staff is warm, kind, knowledgeable, and professional - you can tell they love the animals! The interactive experiences are fun for all ages!
Brittany Nunez — Google review
This is an AWESOME zoo! There's a big variety of animals and several opportunities for animal interaction. You can feed some of the animals and many of them you get to see up close. The tiger walked right up to the viewing window it was great. Big animals like elephants hippos and rhinos, small animals and reptiles like snakes, lizards, penguins, birds and many in between. It is up and downhill but it's so worth the walk.
Jornai — Google review
i loved this zoo so much!!! i want to go back so bad!! by far the best ive been to!
I got to feed and pet a Giraffe! it was cool being so close to the bears and wolves, it was almost like i could reach out and pet them! we were there from 6 am until like 4 pm, the food was great!
Tiana Rust — Google review
This is a must do when in the area. Feeding the giraffes was definitely a highlight, but having the pleasure of almost being nose to nose with mating penguins...AMAZING!!! I absolutely recommend driving up to the shrine (this is included with your zoo pass admission) as a delightful addition to the zoo. They are a non-profit that does not rely on tax income. So feel free to spend 💰 for a good and fun cause.
S — Google review
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4250 Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80906, USA
Pikes Peak is a well-known mountain peak in Colorado that stands at 14,110ft and is made of pink granite. While not the tallest of Colorado's 14ers, it's famous for its stunning views and attracts over half a million visitors every year. The Ute tribe originally named it the Mountain of the Sun, which accurately describes this majestic peak that rises straight up from the plains.
Hiked up through Barr trail and drove back from the top. Thanks to my friend who came up in his car to pick us up. Hard and enjoyable hike with beautiful views along the way. Views from the top were stunning! Would love to travel in the train next time. Our drive down was really fantastic with lot of great stops to enjoy the nature and views!
G J — Google review
America's Mountain is an amazing place to visit. We took the Cog Railway to the top and we were left awe struck. It's no wonder America the Beautiful was inspired by Pike's Peak.
You can hike 13 miles up, take the train, or drive to the top. No matter which way you go, be sure to walk all the way around the top and venture through the visitors center too.
Ben Hommerding — Google review
We went to the top of the mountain through the car, and it was amazing. Views were breathtaking, and we had an excellent time..if you are traveling with kids, they might feel a little light-headed, and the drive up to the mountain is not for the faint heart.
Uday Gundapaneni — Google review
This is a unique high elevation summit experience. There are not a lot of mountains you can drive, hike, or take a railway to the top. The visitor center is nice. The views 360⁰ are spectacular. The summit is very busy.
Jocelyn Dowdy — Google review
One of the very nice outdoor spots to visit in the Denver area. We visited during Labor Day weekend. It was so crowded. It needs a pass to visit the top of the peak. We got lucky to visit the peak despite no planning from our side. The view from the top was absolutely gorgeous. I was pleasantly surprised to see the train service to the top. Next time, I will plan for it. The 360 degree view from the top was spectacular. Sitting at an altitude of 14000+ feet, I could feel the altitude and reduce oxygen levels. The rangers also check for brake pads temperature on the way down and provide recommendations based on the result. In our case, we were asked to wait for 30-40 mins as the brake pads temperature reading was too high. The rangers recommend turning off AC on the way up and using lower gear on the way down.
Bharani Rajendiran — Google review
A very fun day drive and summit experience. Make sure to be ready for the reduced oxygen at the higher elevations. It will be about 20 degrees colder at the Summit, as well.
Orbitals — Google review
Nothing but amazing things to say about this mountain stunning, beautiful, peaceful, ultimate serenity just being out there. I've gone there twice in the last 3 years! Can't get enough of the beauty!
Kevin M — Google review
I’m terrified of heights and I had to drive along those narrow roads with those steep drop offs but I’d do it again to see that view. It really makes you appreciate nature and just how vast the Rocky Mountains are. My photos couldn’t do it justice but just go and see it. If you’re considering it just go do it. Also try the Pikes Peak doughnuts at the cafeteria and check out the gift shop!
Harvey Flowers — Google review
Beautiful peaks to drive to. Landscape wise, not much to see. The challenge is can you withstand the %66 oxygen level and the cold and wind. Not many scenic spot.
Tin Nguyen — Google review
Great tourist site to visit . We took the drive up to Pikes Peak and the views. OMG … We were awe struck.. God has placed so much beauty to see and enjoy ..Will come back again.
Celeste Villegas — Google review
Awesome drive up the mountain in your own vehicle except the last three miles in a bus. Just be sure to drink lots of water to keep from getting altitude sickness. The food at the cafe was really good also and reasonably priced
Randy — Google review
We drove to the top but I have been up hiking and by cograil in the past. Each way to go up gives an amazing experience with breathtaking views. I couldn't believe how much snow was on the summit for later June. I love going up this peak and I enjoyed the amazing doughnuts at the top.
Taylor West — Google review
Ridiculous that they charge $50+ to drive up a mountain... But it's definitely something to check off your list if you're in the area. The $15 admission is if you're not going to the top.
We did not make reservations and were allowed entry with no problem.
Make sure your brakes are in good condition and that you know how to drive downhill without using them (using low gears instead).
Set aside around 3+ hrs for the trip depending on how long your stop offs are. Bring snacks and water.
Beautiful scenery. Be sure to go when the weather is clear and have some high altitude donuts at the top... They really are amazing. The gift shop sells some cool stuff that you can only get there.
If you have kids, be sure to check out the North Pole amusement park.
Diane B — Google review
The views were astonishing. It was a great experience. My kids thought they were on top of the world. And in a way they were kind of right.. It was a little scary driving up there but it was definitely worth it.
Erica Williams — Google review
Jaw Droping view once you get to the top. DEFINITELY RECOMMEND GOING Great view and couple trails near the peak with views definitely if your traveling near Colorado stop there and car accessible all the way to the peak tons of snow even when I went in Late July.
Nayel Bhakta — Google review
An absolutely incredible experience – reaching 14,115 feet up was mind-blowing! Describing the view from the top is a challenge; it's something you truly understand once you've lived it. Opting for the railway train ascent, I would wholeheartedly give it a 💯 recommendation! 🚂🏔️👌
Kat Bulgado — Google review
It is a wonderful experience.
The whole experience was wonderful.
The train journey is awesome with the commentary by the conductor and the staffs are great.
Train is well maintained. Sights and path are very beautiful.
It should be a must visit place and journey.
Highly recommended.
Vishnu — Google review
Wow!! Is the best way to describe this experience. The drive up takes about an hour and it is best to go slow and steady especially around the turns. The view driving up is beautiful but once you get to the top, WOW it is just amazing. It was cold when we went but the experience is so worth it, just dress appropriately. Also don't forget to stop along the way up because there are some really beautiful places to see and take photos. 😊
Reviews by Betty — Google review
Beautiful and fun drive to the summit, it’s 19 miles one way and has lots of gorgeous views! Lots of scenic viewpoints on the way up, we also saw a herd of bighorn sheep! The visitor center at the top is really cool also and you can look in all directions. Highly recommend! Cost $32 for the two of us to come up
Dennis Gavrilenko — Google review
Just amazingly worth it. We tried to get a reservation to drive to the top, but couldn’t. But we were able to drive to mile 16 and park and then ride the free shuttle the next 4 miles to the top. It was a pretty cold day, but we did it in shorts and it really wasn’t all that bad. The views were amazing.
Mark Helms — Google review
A definite MUST see if you are in the Colorado Springs area! The pics do not do this ride justice by far. A few things to note.
Train is about 1 hour up and a little less back down with about 30 minutes at the peak, so plan for about 3 hours.
It will be cold at the top, so plan accordingly! We went up in July and there was still snow.
Also, check the weather and buy tickets in advance. I would recommend sitting on the 3 seat side. We were lucky to have a break in the clouds on the way up, but at the top and the way down, we were in the clouds and had little visibility.
Still an awesome experience that we will do again!
Aaron Seiser — Google review
This place is so beautiful! The views are incredible.
I did not trust myself to drive up or down the mountain so we used Buggy Tours. I highly recommend checking them out. Joe was very knowledgeable and explained all the cool things along the way. Stopped at the best spots for a picture. The summit was cloudy the time we went but the views up and down were perfect.
I highly recommend going to the summit (I’ve been there in the past when not cloudy) you will not regret it, I also recommend checking out Buggy Tours for a ride up and back.
Angelina S — Google review
Wow!! What an incredible time! Make sure to make reservations for your drive up. There is a great map they give you with points of interest on the way. Plenty of places to stop and get some really amazing pictures. Make sure if you are going slow to pull over to let the faster traffic around you. They provide a lot of areas to pull over so you can take your time and enjoy your drive while not holding up people that want to go faster. At the top there is a visitor center with a little museum, gift shop and cafe. Make sure to get your donuts in the cafe! There is a great amount of parking and you can walk around the whole area and get some amazing views. Don’t miss out on this adventure!!
Cheryl Evans — Google review
Breath taking views that we will remember for ever. Must do adventure but please bring jackets on any date if the year. Loved the cog train.
Malissa F — Google review
I highly recommend this if you’re visiting Colorado . I also recommend this opposed to taking the train ride up to the mountain . The ride up and down is an hour… it’s about 15$ a person… and obviously gas to go up and down the mountain. But beautiful views.. and get a donut they’re good!
Kevin R — Google review
Beautiful and tiring. Went to the trailhead straight from the airport and started the hike at 2am on last Saturday 8/26. Paid $30 at the parking lot so don’t forget otherwise you’ll get a $50 ticket. Didn’t see a single soul for first 4 hours and it was pretty dark, reminded me of Blair Witch movie. Last 2-3 miles are tough but worth the payoff. Also, definitely chilly as you get higher so have layers. There is a cafe at the top so enjoyed the cheeseburger and drinks. Water is available to refill along the way so have a filter bottle. I went through 4Liters; Barr camp opens around 7.30am so I was too early but that’s a good stop to rest on the way around 6 miles in or camp at if you want to do this hike over two days. Beautiful views once you get out of the Forrest. There is a train that takes you all the way up and back so do that if you don’t want the workout or you can drive up the paved road. Took me 11hrs total to get to the top and back, around 23.88miles. Hike isn’t technical so anyone can do it as long as you’ve endurance. Highly recommended!!!!
SM — Google review
Breathtaking views! We were only able to go up to mile 13 due to the weather, but it was some of the most beautiful views! Highly recommend taking this journey. We were able to see a couple of moose as well! And we found Big Foot!
Tish N — Google review
Pikes Peak is definitely a must see tourist destination for anyone to visit because of the unbelievable views you get from a top the mountain. The drive up to the top of the mountain is beautiful in itself and is quite invigorating. The amount of switch backs and curves while traveling up makes for an exciting experience. Once you make it to the top, you get a view that is quite unique and truly unbelievable. They have a restaurant at the top where you can grab lunch at. There are multiple spots where you can pull off the road and get some great photo opportunities.
B A — Google review
Probably one of the best things I've ever experienced. I would recommend spending some time in Colorado Springs for a day or two prior to driving up. Get used to the altitude and drink LOTS of water because the lack of oxygen up here WILL make it difficult to walk. Seriously, don't drive up and get dizzy and then not be able to drive back down. There are no guard rails.
Mozz Bagels — Google review
This trendy place is still worth seeing. Yes, the road is steep, and some may be frightened by the sheer drops, but don't let that stop you. The views are spectacular, and it's most likely you won't ever be at that elevation again, especially after being able to drive there! Next time I come here, I want to hike it or take the train. We also saw a Bear near the cliffs below us. Not too often you see them in the wild.
Kelly Smith — Google review
Views for miles and miles. Constantly changing panorama. There's a reason America the Beautiful lyrics were inspired by a visit to Pikes Peak and not New Jersey. Take it slow on the winding road, make sure you have plenty of gas and pack warmer clothes than you think you need.
I. Vladimirovich — Google review
Drive your own vehicle, ride the train, bike, or hike up to the top of this 14,000+ foot summit in Colorado Springs and experience one of the most beautiful views you'll ever see in your life. Photos aren't enough. You have to see Pikes Peak with your own eyes!
Joseph Arnezeder — Google review
Absolutely amazing experience. Due to high winds we did not go all the way to the top. It was still a wonderful site & a must when visiting Colorado Springs
My friends and I had the best time there on Saturday!! It was a special Holiday tour. Not only did we get the tour of all 19 of their wolves, foxes & coyotes, but everyone got a very special meet & greet with Wolf pup Raven!! Amazing experience!! After the tour, we got to check out their wonderful gift shop...best collection of wolf everything that I've ever seen!! They also have a lot of beautiful pictures of the same wolves that we just got to see in person, during our tour!! I recommend this place to anyone who's as in love with wolves as I am!!
Amy Bader — Google review
It was okay, not good, not bad - it would have been great if we weren't going for a toddler... not a toddler experience! The website made it seem like they only had tours on certain days and since they list business hours straight through the day, we assumed that you could just walk around on your own if it wasn't a tour / Wildlife encounter time. So just for anyone else wondering, even if you do pay, you cannot walk around without being on a guided tour beyond the 2 front fences and the check-in building. The gal at the check-in desk said they did have room for us on the tour if we wanted to join, and it would have been $25 (per adult) for each of us and $15 (per child) for our 2 year old child. Our 2 (almost 3) year old just wouldn't have had the patience for or really care to take a tour (and I'm sure the guides and everyone else on the tour appreciated not having a 2 year old talk through the entire tour asking 8 million questions over and over about the animals and running around)... he just wanted to go see the animals from a distance, like the National Wildlife Refuge. And I'm pretty sure all the tours go inside the enclosures, which he is also not ready for and could not behave safely - they do say on their site tours are not recommended for anyone below the age of 5, and I'd agree with their recommendation; however, I didn't realize that basically meant do not visit if you are under the age of 5 since it's only meant to be a tour guided facility - nothing you can pay an admission to just view from behind the fenced areas. Our son did get to see a couple foxes that were in the 2 front fences in the entry way, and the gift shop had a really nice variety of products though, so if it's on the way, you could go just for that if you have a toddler or baby... but know it's a quick trip and you won't see much of anything. We won't go back until we have a child old enough to do the tour safely and who would want to actually understand and care about the tour to make it worth the time and $ for us.. and to respect everyone else trying to listen to the tour, but we would like to come back when that time comes.
T — Google review
Well designed and maintained wolf and wildlife experience. Plenty of parking. Staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. Groups can be large in numbers but the facility easily allows for this and voice amplification devices ensure the guide can be heard. The one hour tour gives you a great idea overview of the facility and you may wish to return for a more enhanced and personal experience. Howl and be heard at this wonderful wildlife encounter. Great for young and old alike!
M Payler — Google review
Beautiful place. I'm glad such place exist, they do amazing things for the endangered wildlife. It's sad to hear what these lovely creatures go through. Definitely worth going and taking a look for yourself. Emily was our tour guide and she introduced us to a variety of lovely wolves and coyotes. Being very informative about the critical situation they are facing as well as how incredible and smart they are. We promise to visit every year or any time we can to support you all. Thank you.
There's plenty more wolves I just snapped a couple of pictures. Howling with the wolves at the end was a great farewell and is something we want to experience again.
Jay Son — Google review
What a night! My wife loved it. Amazing job from the whole team and owner with these beautiful creatures. An amazing plan to insert them back into the wildlife!
I will go anytime I can!
Kevim Lucena — Google review
What a truly amazing experience! These wolves are amazing to admire. Let's help preserve them! Definitely recommend a wolf interaction. Your soul will be changed forever as you howl with them!
International Traveling Clown — Google review
Brought my daughter and my 2 grandsons (7 & 10 years old) to learn about the wolves. The tour and educational information is well worth their prices. I can not speak highly enough about the people working here who interacted with us. They are very well informed, personable, and genuinely care for these wonderful animals. I would do this tour again when we come back to Colorado. Next time I’m hoping to do the VIP.
Elizabeth Hargis — Google review
Great interactive experience with Raven the Wolf. They only do this once a month, but it was very worthwhile.
The tour afterwards was very informative as well.
My one criticism would be the prices in the store afterwards, there is at least a 25% markup on some items compared to other souvenir stores in the area. I honestly think they would sell more if they reduced their prices and potentially have more to spend on the wolves and their upkeep.
Alternatively sell more smaller, low priced souvenirs so that people are less likely to leave without spending anything
HC OakleyD — Google review
Reservations are required. Basic tour is $25 and personally I think that's high.
You can pay extra for personal encounters with the wolves.
They sell water, but you can bring your own. They provide shade umbrellas if it's really sunny, but there are plenty of shady spots and places to sit along the tour.
They do a good job of trying to coax the wolves to come up to the fence so you can see them up close.
The ending group wolf howl was really cool.
Diane B — Google review
Visiting the wolf and wildlife center was an incredible experience! The staff was knowledgeable and passionate about these magnificent animals. We got to see the wolves and other animals up close in a safe and respectful environment. It was both educational and awe-inspiring. I highly recommend this organization to anyone interested in wildlife conservation and learning more about wolves.
Jessica “Jay” Dibella — Google review
We took the feeding tour last Saturday evening. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and friendly. I had some preconceived "knowledge" about wolves; boy, was I wrong! Our tour guide was great with adults and kids. The wolves, foxes, coyotes, and New Guinea Laughing Dogs are extremely well taken care of and beautiful. Lots of space for all of them. If you have even the slightest interest in these animals, this is a must visit. The money raised goes to protect these animals. Thank you to the staff, the ones we met, and the others we didn't; you're doing wonderful work.
Steve Brown — Google review
Absolutely an incredible experience!!! Could not recommend this place more! So many beautiful animals and the staff was so knowledgeable! Made me want to do more for these wolves/foxes and the fur trade industry!
If you live or are visiting Colorado- you HAVE to check this place out! 10/10 experience!
Jordyn Klein — Google review
One of the most amazing experiences I’ve had, it’s a must see for sure. I received such crucial information on the importance of saving these beautiful creatures. Our tour guide was one of the best I’ve had on any tour. She had so much information for us but shared in the most fun way. The wolves were beautiful, endearing and when they howled! Wow. You have to go!
Claudia Aguilera — Google review
Amazing. We loved every bit. They are wonderful with accessibility accommodations via golf cart and wildlife conservation.
Put on your good hiking shoes; some steep hills with gravel.
Stacey Posey — Google review
Visited here finally after many years living in SoCo. The refuge itself has wolves rescued from far flung places as well as wild dogs, foxes, etc. We had to be escorted around the refuge and were given a background of each of the animals in the enclosures as well as some behavior info. You can tell the staff interact quite a bit as they have gotten to know each animals personality, and that was probably the most intriguing part of this tour. Be sure to go upstairs and see Raven's (the wolf who likes to paint) work. You can even buy a print if you like.
Lady Margaret — Google review
Must visit. Easy to find. Would recommend reservations in advance. We didn't and were able to get the next time slot. The gift shop is amazing and has a seating area in the back with coffee and tea. The tour was eye-opening with the populations of the wolf and how each state treats them. I'm so glad this place is here to educate us all. We howl and the wolf's howl back at us.
Donna Buono — Google review
As an animal and particularly a wolf lover, this was one of the best experiences of my life! The knowledge they have of the animals they are working so hard to preserve and the obvious love and care they provide for each of them is very evident. An awesome place and experience.
Be sure to check the events page before visiting to see what extra fun or educational thing they may be doing for an extremely reasonable price!
Katie Kennedy — Google review
Where your dreams of observing, interacting, and even petting a couple of wolves can come true! The staff is very knowledgeable, friendly, and they have a true passion for all the critters at the reserve! The reserve is a beautiful environment for the animals to roam in and a grand environment to observe them in! Definitely a one of a kind experience, especially the photography sessions that are offered! They also have a magnificent gift shop that truly does have something for everyone! I'm from North Carolina, I purchased and experienced the group photo session. The staff DOES makes sure that you have a chance to interact with the wolves before you leave. The photos they take are done with precise timing! They know their wolves well! Well worth the price to experience this rare opportunity, and I would do it a hundred more times if I could!I look forward to going back with my son one day! Thank you Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center for making a little girl's dreams come true!!!
Kerri Clemmons — Google review
If you love Animals you cannot skip on the Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center. I was able to make a dream come true by interacting with Foxes and Wolves.
Our tour guide and animal handler were amazing, super friendly and intelligent. Being up close and personal with these majestic creatures truly makes you understand how important it is that we protect them.
Anthony Vailliant — Google review
This place is amazing!! You get so close to the animals, and they teach you so much while you're there. I did the wolf encounter and will have photos to look back on from an experience of a lifetime. The staff was very friendly and kind. Plus, they have cool stuff in the gift shop for decent prices, and all the proceeds go back into the wolves.
However, if you go in the wintertime, wear boots cause it's slick and icy on the paths - you're in the mountains, lol
Sabrina Sheehan — Google review
Staff was very kind and knowledgeable. The intro at the very beginning was very long-winded but I understand the importance of spreading facts and encouraging people to support our wolves. The wolves are lovely and were very talkative during our session. I cannot wait to go back to visit those beauties.
Victoria Medina — Google review
I cannot say enough good things about the Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center. I was visiting Colorado Springs for a work trip and knew I needed to make the journey to visit the wolves. The VIP experience is incredible, and the staff are extremely accommodating at trying to get you great photos and very friendly. The facility itself is beautiful, with spacious enclosures and enrichment for the animals. As a veterinarian I appreciate the effort to maintain good health and welfare of the animals, as well as the effort to educate the public on wolf behaviour and ecology. Debunking the “alpha male” myth is particularly important since neither wolves nor dogs operate on a dominance hierarchy. Emily our tour guide was clearly very passionate about wolf behaviour and conservation and I wish I could have had more opportunity to chat with her. These beautiful animals are a vital part of the ecosystem and I am grateful to the CWWC for their efforts to advocate on behalf of wolves and wolf conservation and educate the public. I am even more grateful to the animals themselves for welcoming me into their space and allowing me to fulfill a lifelong dream.
A beautiful park with breath-taking sandstone formations and stunning views of the mountains, Garden of the Gods is a popular tourist destination in Colorado Springs. It's perfect for outdoor activities, with plenty to see and do, including hiking trails and a visitor center.
Breathtaking!! We arrived early and was able to get a good parking spot. The Visitor's Center was really informative and cool. The gift shop has some really nice items and the staff was nice. We walked the trails and took some amazing pictures. Nature is beautifully created. And it's free, you can't beat that.
Kay Lafleur — Google review
Such an amazing experience! There are short walks and longer walks. A nice public restroom next to parking lot 2. The visitor center is awesome! They have a nice little gift shop and you can pick up a map there. It also has some amazing views too! It also has a little cafe if you want to grab coffee or snacks before going hiking.
Selena Daryl — Google review
Beautiful rock formations. You will be greeted with balanced rock with a narrow road to the visitor centre. The road is a loop with various scenic spots. I believe the place would be more beautiful during dawn or dusk. Great for hiking, walking or just being with nature !!
Rishikesh Nalapur — Google review
Our first stop was at the Visitor’s Center. The man at the information desk was helpful and courteous. Since we were pushing a baby stroller he pointed the paved route for us. The view from the Center is beautiful and a great place for pictures. It is a good idea to bring water. While the paved hiking is not strenuous the dry climate will leave you thirsty!
Richard Blake — Google review
Such an amazing and majestic place. This was a great place for the whole family. The scenes are gorgeous and the kids loved climbing around on the rocks. It’s super clean and the paths are well taken care of. Add it to your “must-see” list. You won’t regret it.
Stevie Torres — Google review
This place is amazing. Such beautiful vistas, I could spend an entire day just taking it all in. You can drive your car up the road and there's a parking lot that meets a trailhead. The path is concrete and well maintained. In fact, the entire area is meticulous. We got a good way down the path and turned back because it started to rain. But this is a wondrous place that is good for the soul.
Nathan Wadman — Google review
One of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. No joke. There is something for everyone here! There are concrete sidewalks throughout the park, as well as more primitive trails with some elevation if that’s your thing. The visitor’s center is also very nice.
Kenny Spade — Google review
Fun experience walking around and seeing the formation of the rocks there and the surrounding areas. The park is kept very clean and tidy. You can see caution signs if you're not clear if you can go or do certain things. Maps are well placed around to make sure you know where you are at all times. People there are friendly and the views are even better. Everywhere you look is a sight to see. Traffic is not that bad, but I didn't go at their peak times. It was open till late, which was great as we got to see the sunset.
ngawang sherpa — Google review
We visited on a Monday afternoon, not too crowded. The visitor center is really cool, all the touch screens actually work! The staff were very helpful and the gift shop has some cute stuff. Everything is very accessible on the paths, if you have a wheelchair or stroller you can navigate safely. It’s a great time and it’s free! The weather was great, just a little snow here and there.
Corey Green — Google review
Absolutely amazing place to venture. We spent hours enjoying the sights and could have easily spent longer. There are many trails. Animals to watch for. The restrooms are very well maintained, as is the whole park. Dog, kid friendly. There are areas that are not mobility friendly for wheelchair access and strollers, but there are plenty of other areas to explore that are.
Kayla Escudero — Google review
It's absolutely beautiful. Did the Siamese Twins trail. It was a little tricky to stay on coarse. We started at the trading post, its probably better from the actual trailhead. the paths were clear but it just wasn't clear if you were on the correct path. The map was not too helpful. But we had GPS on so could always see where the trading post was and the other people on trail were helpful in letting us know if we were on the right track. But aside from that the scenery is absolutely amazing. We saw deer and a cute, way too accustomed to humans squirrel. And lots of cool birds. Could spend all day just staring at the beautiful views of valleys hills and rock formations. Super grateful there is no charge to enter,although we did our part by spending money in the gift shop and trading post!
Leila D. — Google review
It doesn't matter whether it's your first time or you've been a hundred times it will always be breathtaking and connect you with nature no matter what time of year it is! The drive is absolutely beautiful through the park. Trails are well maintained and many are handicap accessible. Access to Rampart Road will take you on a fun 4-wheeling drive.
Bucket list stop for visitors for sure. Beautiful trading post with lots of local gifts.
Amanda Tolles — Google review
Unique, wonderful, picturesque place to go for a hike/walk.
Mountain Biking, there is a designated area for mountain biking.
Only downside, it is so popular that it can be a bit crowded and difficult to find parking at times.
Most enjoyable at off-peak times.
J C — Google review
This was amazing. It was so cool to see and actually walk around and climb on these rocks. So many trails and spots to park. There are some trails that are shared with horses. So watch out for horse droppings. They even have picnic areas with tables so you can bring your own food and eat with your family and friends. Pretty cool to actually see and touch all that stuff. One of my favorite spots I found.
isaac sapp — Google review
they have a cafe in the visitors center and a cute gift shop. there are plenty of paved paths to walk along around the park, along with dirt paths that are less busy. we saw many people climbing on the rocks and the weather was great so there were many animals wandering around. lots of birds too
Jade F — Google review
My overall experience has been incredible here. Definitely not a place that you get to explore in a few hours or even a whole day. I'd say to plan the spots that you want to explore and revisit if you have time. If you are a hiker, on the map the Scotsman Picnic Ground has a great trail, just watch out for horse poop everywhere as this is a pretty popular riding for horse owners.
Carla Gorosito Cox — Google review
Such a beautiful place! I went hiking one day but didn’t get to see everything before the sun went down. I went back the next day to catch the sunrise and see what I missed the day before. There are so many cool things to see all over the place.
I went later in the day on the first day so it wasn’t too crowded. The same for the sunrise, there was hardly anyone there. So amazing that there’s no charge for this park!
Steph West — Google review
It goes without saying that this place is beautiful. The visitors center was really nice all kinds of information about the area. It was a little bit crowded but it seemed to be pack with the kind of people who loved where they were so it was great vibes. My kids loved it and didn't want to stop hiking. There is a lot of area roped off I'm sure with good reason but i wish we could explore around off the path a little bit.
kristina cuddeback — Google review
This was my first time in Colorado Springs and this is a must see. The park is easy to drive in and through. The actual area is at the foot of the mountains and not in the mountains. The terrain is easy to walk. I has areas for you to walk and many, many people do that. It has areas to bike ride and it also has places to horse ride. The are separated places so you can enjoy whatever you are choosing to do. You can drive through the area and it is a nine mile trip, I was told. You can take a picnic lunch and enjoy the scenery. The trails are wide and well worn so that anyone can walk them. There is a lot of traffic but it is worth the effort and be ready to take pictures. You could definitely spend a day just walking and riding. Loved it. There is a trading post there as well. and the nature center is kinda nice but average.
Tom Bush — Google review
Definitely worth a visit if you are in the Colorado Springs area. Best of all, this park is free to the public. Parking is free at the visitor center but it can fill up quickly during the day. There are plenty of parking spaces with free shuttle about 5 minutes from the visitor center. You can drive into the garden but there are limited parking spaces there.
There are lots of hiking trails but if you are looking for a short hike, the park rangers will recommend the 1 mile paved loop around the famous rock formations not far from the visitor center.
If you are interested, you can buy tickets for a 45-minute Jeep tour around the entire park for $20 per person. There are bikes for rent as well.
This park is open from 5 AM to 10 PM in the summer. We also visited the park the following day to take pictures and see the sun rise over the rock formations. It was beautiful and there were very few people in the park during sunrise.
Peter Tan — Google review
Immaculate, breathtaking, mind boggling. These words don't even begin to describe the feelings you get when you try to think about how everything about these dwarfs your existence. When it comes to the time and resources at play to bring you these amazing views. Recommend watching the 15 minute video at the visitor center to get an idea of how these formations can't about.
Gerid Adams (Wired4Sound) — Google review
Free to enter. I wished one of the main parking lots was bigger, it took awhile to find a parking space. You have to sit and wait for people to leave. Hiking is easy and you can go as leisurely as you want. It’s better to do this one in the morning to avoid the massive amounts of tourists coming. You can easily spend a few hours here.
Nicholas P — Google review
No doubt this place is one of the best small hike locations to explore in the area. Lots of beautiful views and hiking paths. Bring water and make sure to stay hydrated. I would also advise proper shoes that cover your ankles and toes, the sand is red and will dust your shoes with a fine coating (easy to clean off, but be aware it's part of the experience) all in all, I highly suggest this park.
TJ D — Google review
Beautiful, great place to walk your dogs (just keep them on their leash and clean up if they go to the bathroom). Lots of parking, great walking paths. Welcome center and visitor center has lots of great info and a little cafe.
Nicole Klor — Google review
This place was absolutely beautiful. We made a trip out to pick up my daughter and she encouraged us to check it out before we left. They did have a picnic area, restrooms, and if you’re into rock climbing they had designated areas for that as well! I would love to fly back to Colorado and explore this place some more!
Amber Russo — Google review
Visiting Garden of the Gods was an awe-inspiring experience. Nestled in Colorado Springs, this natural landmark boasts stunning geological formations, with towering red rock spires and balanced boulders set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. The beauty of the park is breathtaking, and the array of colors, especially at sunrise or sunset, is simply mesmerizing. The well-maintained trails offer easy access to explore the landscape and get up close with the unique rock formations. Each viewpoint and trail presents a new perspective of the park's grandeur, making it a photographer's paradise. The visitor center was informative, providing insights into the geological history and the natural ecosystem of the area. Garden of the Gods is not just a feast for the eyes but also a place that ignites the imagination and offers a peaceful retreat into nature. It’s a must-visit for anyone who appreciates natural beauty and geological wonders.
Lady Cornwall — Google review
Here's some more information about this amazing place:
History: The Garden of the Gods was formed over millions of years by wind and water erosion. The Ute people, who inhabited the area for centuries, considered it a sacred place. In 1909, the park was donated to the city of Colorado Springs and has been a popular tourist destination ever since.
Rock formations: The park is home to some of the most iconic rock formations in the world, including Kissing Camels, Balanced Rock, and the Three Graces. These formations have been named for their resemblance to various objects, adding to the park's whimsical charm.
Activities: There are plenty of activities to enjoy in the Garden of the Gods, including hiking, rock climbing, horseback riding, and jeep tours. There are also several scenic trails that wind through the park, offering stunning views of the rock formations and the surrounding landscape.
Visitor Center: The Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center is a great place to start your visit. The center has exhibits on the park's geology, history, and ecology. There is also a bookstore and a gift shop.
Getting there: The Garden of the Gods is located just west of Colorado Springs. The park is open year-round, and there is a fee to enter.
Vikas Kumar — Google review
Must visit place in Colorado Springs, CO.
Loved the transition of colors by the evening and view of different mountain rock formations. Really the Garden of Gods.
Could spend entire day here on the trails and view spots.
Got well maintained parking spots, trail heads and restrooms.
inferno d — Google review
Nice place to take a hike on or bike different trails. You can picnic here and see some amazing rock formations. It's nice to just drive through also if not the walking type.
M M — Google review
Climbing is epic! As a new outdoor climber, the grades are sandbagged. There are few bolts, we used trad gear on most sport routes. The first bold is often 15ft+ from the ground, may not be able to get it even with a stick clip. Not a place I would recommend for beginners, but for those up for the challenge, it is a playground of old classic routes with incredible views.
Sharie Dodge — Google review
Incredible experience. We chose to do the audio guided tour in our vehicle. There are many places to park along the way and explore on foot. The views of Pikes Peak were great once the clouds clear.
Chase Griggers — Google review
Love the formations, but not all the tourists... we go when it's not expected to be bust, much better people wise. Big park, drive around to the different spots and park, lots to see. Don't step in the red clay mud, it will ruin your shoes.
The US Air Force Academy is a prominent military training facility in Colorado Springs, which attracts millions of tourists each year. It offers visitors a glimpse into the history and training of pilots and other airmen.
Visited the United States Air Force Academy in early August and was simply awestruck by the history, mission, character and quality of people who first organized the institution, all the graduates over time, and the proud character of the individuals attending the academy. Beautiful campus nestled in the north part of Colorado Springs, with plenty of space and neat, air-themed buildings. The chapel was under renovation/construction when we visited so we could not view it, but there are plenty of images and models around to get an idea of how beautiful and majestic the building is. We don't have any family members in the military, but we greatly appreciated the valuable opportunity to learn about this wonderful institution and the amazing work of the people associated with it. Highly recommended if you're in the area.
Shingo S. Ishida — Google review
Beautiful place and inspiring. The cadet chapel is very nice. It’s a MUST visit place if you are in Colorado Springs area.
Highly recommend it!
Amo Cenare — Google review
We visited the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado, in hopes that our daughter will be attending next year. It is a highly respected institution that is known for producing some of the most dedicated and skilled military officers in the United States Air Force. With a focus on integrity, excellence, and service, the Academy prepares its students to meet the challenges of military service with honor and distinction.
Beyond its academic and ethical rigor, the Air Force Academy also offers a vibrant and diverse community for its students. Cadets come from all walks of life, and the Academy prides itself on fostering a sense of camaraderie and belonging.
It would be a blessing to be a part of this prestigious academy.
Kelly Haynes — Google review
The price is right. It's a top-level education at zero cost. There are, of course, some strings attached.
Alex Kolkena — Google review
Views from USAFA are inspiring and give citizens understand how our military leaders are developed
Stephen D. Marino — Google review
What an impressive place! Not just the beauty and the organization of it, but the respect for the academy and the respect for the service is present. The size of the grounds is immense, and we only stayed on the roads, not having time to go on any of the walking paths. Even though the chapel is currently closed, we still learned a lot through the visitor's center, and the video they showed was informative as well. Would have loved to have had more time here.
John Landeck — Google review
My husband made a second trip to get my prescription which said on the recording that it would be ready on Friday after 2:00 pm. He tried calling but they would not answer the phone and of course it was not ready again. Have no idea what is happening at the USAF Academy but the prescriptions now are never ready when they say it is in their recording. From now on we are not going to pick it up until we get text from them saying it is ready. Of course I am going to run out of this important medication.
Tamara P Chandler — Google review
The youngest of our military academies, it is worth taking the self guided tour. We were able to see a great deal of the academy and much of its history.
Annette Porter — Google review
Beautiful and inspiring. Love this country! The plane at the entrance is amazing! Whoa!
Patrick Vandiver — Google review
Interesting college. Awesome and incredibly difficult and kind of miserable all at the same time. As a cadet, the best part is the other people the worst part is your own weaknesses. Will make you a stronger person in every way even if you don’t graduate.
Jack Peterson — Google review
Love this training area with museum, planetarium, chapel
Jean Cappellano — Google review
We visited falcon Trail beautiful view 13 mile hike we did a 4.8 in and out next time we go we're going to do the full 13
Dave Pigon — Google review
What a place!! It will stir your patriotism. At the visitor's center, a movie explains how they train the cadets. You can take a walking tour of the beautiful campus, visit their museum, and drive around the beautiful places where the cadets work out and train. It will make you proud to know you are supporting something like this.
Phil Helman — Google review
Einen Abstecher aus Denver ist es wert. Hier schlägt das Herz der US Airforce Ausbildung. Registriert euch kurz am Südeingang und los gehts. Top Gun in echt.
(Translated by Google)
It's worth a detour from Denver. This is where the heart of US Air Force training beats. Just register at the south entrance and off you go. Top Gun for real.