- Top Attractions
- See & Do
- Eat & Drink
- Hotels
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Why Visit Telluride
Telluride's origin as a silver mining camp is preserved in its National Historic Landmark District, showcasing Victorian-era architecture. Main Street features landmarks like the Sheridan Opera House. A little-known fact is that Butch Cassidy's first major bank robbery occurred here in 1889, cementing its Wild West legacy.
Nestled in a box canyon within the San Juan Mountains, the scenery is dramatic. One of the top attractions in Telluride is Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado's tallest free-falling waterfall. The free gondola to Mountain Village offers unparalleled views, serving as unique public transit. Locals favor the Bear Creek Trail for its accessibility.
The town's calendar is packed with world-class events, from the Bluegrass Festival in June to the Telluride Film Festival over Labor Day weekend. For a truly local experience, visit during the annual Mushroom Festival, a quirky celebration of mycology with forays and talks, showcasing the town's unique intellectual vibe.
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- TellurideUnited States
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- TellurideUnited States
Quick Travel Essentials
- Dec-Febcold, snow, ski season
- Mar-Maymild, spring flowers, fewer crowds
- Jun-Augwarm, hiking, busy
- Sep-Novcool, fall colors, fewer tourists
- #LayeredClothing
- #ComfortableShoes
- #Sunscreen
- #WaterBottle
- #SkiGearskiseason
- #HikingGear
- 3-5 days for highlights
- 5-7 for side trips & extended stays
- USD ($)
- English
- English is an official language here
- #TellurideSkiResort
- #MainStreet
- #BearCreekFalls
- #SanMiguelRiverTrail
- #JudWiebeTrail
- #LastDollarRoad
- Ski at Telluride Ski Resort
- Visit the Telluride Historical Museum
- Hike Bear Creek Trail
- Explore local shops on Main Street
- Attend the Telluride Film Festival
Recommended Hotels in Telluride by Experience
Things to do in Telluride
Discover
Exploring Telluride reveals a box canyon town with breathtaking sights. Ride the free Telluride Gondola for panoramic views, marvel at Bridal Veil Falls, the state's tallest free-falling waterfall, and wander through the National Historic Landmark District.
Experience
Hike the Bear Creek Trail in summer or ski the renowned Telluride Ski Resort in winter. Experience cultural highlights like the Telluride Film Festival or the Bluegrass Festival, and browse the shops and galleries along Colorado Avenue.
Telluride Gondola
Free public transit with stunning San Juan Mountain views.
Bridal Veil Falls
Colorado's tallest free-falling waterfall at 365 feet.
Telluride Historical Museum
Museum in a restored 1896 hospital, detailing local history.
Historic Colorado Avenue
Victorian-era main street with shops, galleries, and history.
Bear Creek Trail
Popular hiking trail leading to scenic waterfalls and views.
Sheridan Opera House
Historic 1913 theater for live music, film, and events.
Telluride Town Park
Hub for festivals, ice skating, and year-round recreation.
Before You Arrive
Getting There
The best way how to get to Telluride is to fly into Telluride Regional (TEX), 15 mins away, or Montrose (MTJ), a 90-min drive. A Telluride shuttle bus or private car covers the Telluride airport to city center route. Car rental is available at MTJ.
Getting Around
The main public transport in Telluride is the free Galloping Goose bus, which runs a loop through town. The iconic, free Gondola connects Telluride to Mountain Village, offering stunning views and eliminating the need for a car between the two towns.
Local Essentials
Driving in Telluride during winter requires a 4WD vehicle. As you plan a trip to Telluride, remember the high altitude; stay hydrated to avoid sickness. Parking is limited, so rely on public transit. This is essential for Telluride travel tips for first-timers.
Where to Stay in Telluride
Where to Eat and Drink
Celebrate
Explore Telluride's culinary scene, where Rocky Mountain elk and fresh trout are staples. After a day on the slopes, the après-ski ritual is essential. Locals gather to eat, drink, and share stories. Taste the local craft brews.
Enjoy
The best restaurants in Telluride include Allred's, an elegant spot with gondola access, reserve ahead. For a lively vibe, visit Smuggler Union Brewery, try flights. The Butcher & Baker Cafe is a bustling local hub, perfect for grab-and-go.
Allred's Restaurant
Stunning mountain views via gondola. Reservations essential.
Chop House Restaurant
Classic steakhouse in the historic New Sheridan Hotel.
Brown Dog Pizza
Award-winning Detroit-style pizza. Always a family crowd.
Siam
Authentic Thai cuisine in a vibrant, intimate setting.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate
Explore Telluride's heritage through its authentic events. The Fourth of July is a must-see, with a Main Street parade, town barbecue, and stunning fireworks reflecting mining-era traditions and community spirit. This is one of things to do in Telluride.
Enjoy
Enjoy Telluride's creative pulse at world-class events. The town hosts iconic bluegrass and jazz music festivals in the summer. Film lovers gather for the prestigious Telluride Film Festival each Labor Day weekend.
Telluride Bluegrass Festival
Legendary four-day bluegrass and Americana festival in June.
Telluride Film Festival
Major international film festival held over Labor Day weekend.
Fourth of July Celebration
Classic town parade, BBQ, and fireworks on Independence Day.
Telluride Jazz Festival
August celebration of jazz, funk, and soul in Town Park.
Telluride Balloon Festival
Early June event with morning balloon launches and a street glow.
Telluride Plein Air
Artists paint outdoors during this late June/early July event.
Telluride Horror Show
A three-day horror, sci-fi, and fantasy genre film festival.
A truly special mountain town
Telluride is a special place. The town is nestled in a box canyon, and the views are just incredible from every angle. It has a relaxed, authentic feel, not like some of the other big resorts. The free gondola is a game changer for getting around.
Fantastic spring skiing!
Amazing spring skiing conditions! The slopes were well-groomed, and the crowds were totally manageable. The lift lines were short which meant more runs. Mountain Village has some great spots for a post-ski bite right off the slopes. A top-tier mountain.
Perfect for the family
Great for a family trip. The kids loved riding the gondola between the town and Mountain Village. The main street, Colorado Avenue, is so walkable with lots of cool shops and places to eat. It felt very safe and friendly everywhere we went.
Stunning winter scenery
Telluride is stunningly beautiful in the winter. Even if you don't ski, the scenery is worth the trip. We did some snowshoeing near Bridal Veil Falls which was lovely. The historic downtown has a really classic old-west feel. Just a gorgeous spot.
Awesome expert terrain
This mountain offers some seriously challenging terrain. The variety of steeps and bowls is fantastic for advanced skiers. The town has a good energy for unwinding after a long day on the slopes, with plenty of solid food options to refuel.
Cozy historic town
The whole town feels so cozy and historical, especially when covered in snow. The shops are unique, not just chain stores. Found some great little cafes to warm up in. It's compact and easy to explore on foot. A perfect little mountain escape.