Every state has their own particular characteristics, natural or cultural, that create their charm, and undoubtably Colorado is one of most scenic and activity-packed in the United States. From the skiing down the Rocky Mountain slopes, to catching a Broncos game and everything in between, you won’t have a hard time figuring out what to do. Here’s a list of 10 places to visit during your next trip.

10. The Great Sand Dunes
This is a very underrated attraction that deserves a great amount of light. About 35 million years ago, volcanoes where the San Juan Mountains erupted causing mountains of sediment and ash to fall from the sky and overtime, forming the sand dunes in the seemingly improbable spot that you’ll find them today.

Photo courtesy | David Fulmer

9. Pike’s Peak
If you’re more of a hiker, make sure you pack your hiking gear for Pike’s Peak. According to the city of Colorado Spring’s website, Pike’s Peak is mostly granite and glaciers as well as became part of the United States after the historic Louisiana Purchase in 1803. The Mountain was named after Lt. Zebulon Pike who explored the mountain in 1806. Pike’s Peak has so many options to explore with ticket prices averaging around $7.00 to $20.00 depending on what you wish to explore.

Photo courtesy | Jennifer Boyer

8. Coor’s Brewery
If anyone is into grabbing a drink or are plain old beer fanatics, the Coor’s Brewery in Golden is the spot to be at. Admission is free, but you might have to wait on line depending on the day’s foot traffic. The Brewery is opened from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays thru Mondays, opened from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays, and is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays only.

7. Red Rock’s
If you’re a music guy and with the concerts at Sports Authority Field at Mile High already touched on, another excellent spot for a concert is Red Rock’s amphitheater, originally opened in 1941. The Red Rock’s website mentions that the theater is 15-miles west from Denver.

Photo courtesy | Chris Dodds

6. Sports Authority Field at Mile High Colorado
This is an obvious attraction to see whether you are a Denver Broncos fan or not. The stadium is an excellent venue to watch a football game or a concert and it even hosts international soccer games from time-to-time. Known for it’s loud atmosphere, it’s a surefire place to enjoy an event.

Photo courtesy | Craig Hawkins

5. Nederland, CO
This next area to visit is the very historic and unique town of Nederland, CO. This town was originally settled in the 19th century and was first called Dayton, then Brownsville, and finally by 1871, Nederland was called Middle Boulder according to the town’s website. Make sure you stop by Bella’s Deli, serving great sandwiches, salads, soups, desserts, among other specialties.

4. Breckenridge Ski Resort
Looking for a lot of action and adventure, look no further than going on a ski or snowboarding trip at the Breckenridge Ski Resort. According to Colorado Ski History, Breckenridge originally opened on Dec. 16, 1961 as the Peak 8 Ski Area. The elevation for Breckenridge’s base is 12,998′.

Photo courtesy | Benjamin Chun

3. Hanging Lake
Another extremely underrated natural attraction is Hanging Lake, home to two amazing waterfalls and an incredibly stunning lake that deserves to be seen. In an effort to preserve the natural beauty, you cannot swim in the lake, bring your dog, dip body parts in the water, stand under or on top of waterfalls, walk on fallen trees in the water, and fish in the lake. All of which are extremely understandable since lakes like this should remain crystal clear.

Photo courtesy | Bryce Bradford

2. Boulder, CO
One of the first areas you will have to go see is the city of Boulder, originally explored by William Russell in 1858 and called the area Auraia, was officially formed on Nov. 11, 1861. One major tourist attraction to see in Boulder is the Pearl Street Mall which has historic buildings and a classic brick walkway where talented street performers entertain tourists as well as have cafes, shops, restaurants also give tourists a memorable experience.

Photo courtesy | Carol Jacobs-Carre

1. Aspen, CO
There is one more ski resort town that just as good as Breckenridge or even better which is the iconic city of Aspen. This city is well known to many because of the Winter X Games that take place there each year. The Winter X Games will be held at Aspen, CO’s Buttermilk Mountain and all sporting events are free to the public according to Aspen Snow Mass.

Photo courtesy | Vivek Tulsidas