When people think of Colorado they think of winter, snow and ski vacations. When I think of Colorado I think of home, the outdoors and the prettiest sunsets you’ll ever see. So remember that Colorado isn’t only a winter wonderland. If you find yourself needing a big dose of nature and adventure, I’ve got you covered for the best places to go and things to do in coloRADo.

1. Boulder

Home to CU Boulder and trust-fund hippies, Boulder is an addiction. With amazing restaurants like The Sink and The Buff, hiking and amazing views, Boulder is perfect for college kids looking for other college kids to adventure with.

2. Buena Vista

If you really are in need of some “good views,” Buena Vista is the perfect place for the outdoorsy experience. You have access to so many 14ners and awesome camping. Nothing can compare to the sun rising on the collegiate mountains.

3. Red Rocks

No one can argue with me that this is the single most amazing concert venue in the world. A beautiful outdoor amphitheater that overlooks the Denver skyline and gets even prettier when the sun sets. Not only does Red Rocks amaze the best artists in the industry, but it also hosts the best festivals.

4. Rafting/Tubing

When I was in middle school they took us rafting as a class trip. The Colorado River flows right by my hometown, and when the snow starts melting we start counting down the days until we can break out the tubes and spend our weekends floating and relaxing. We may be adrenaline junkies, but we like a good day with friends, and the more friends the better.

5. Summit County

From Lake Dillon to Breckinridge there is a reason Summit claims to be Colorado’s Playground. Lake Dillon is great for a relaxing day on your boat. Breck on the other hand is famous for its skiing, but all of the 14ners and hiking you have access to make it amazing for locals. Frisco is full of young people and exciting personalities.

6. Devil’s Punchbowl

Nope, it’s not a drink or a restaurant. Devil’s Punchbowl is a place for you to test your fear of heights. If you’re fearless and love adrenaline then Devil’s Punch Bowl is definitely a stop worth making. It’s a cliff diving spot surrounded by nature in its rawest form.

7. Vail

I have personal bias for Vail due to the fact that I was born there. But other than that it really is an amazing place to visit in the summer. The Vail Farmer's Market brings out the best artists, produce and 10th Mountain Division Whiskey (if you’re of age of course). Piney Lake isn’t bad on the eyes either.

8. Grand Junction/Country Jam

If you like country music and you like having a good time, Country Jam is the place to be mid-June. They have all of the best country artists and they never stop the party. If you don’t like country, Grand Junction is near great mountain biking trails.

9. Jazz Aspen Snowmass

Though this event falls on Labor Day weekend, it’s still something to brag about. It’s an awesome festival that never ceases to bring in amazing talent. This year’s line-up consists of Train, The Killers, Stevie Wonder and Duran Duran. Not to mention Aspen is insanely beautiful.

10. Sand Dunes

So in case having the Rocky Mountains, Mesa Verde and Black Canyon National Parks weren’t enough for us Coloradans, we also were blessed with Great Sand Dunes National Park. Aside from camping and hiking, you can also try Sand Boarding out... (Google it).

11. Beaver Creek

I learned how to ski at Beaver Creek so it is yet another place I hold close to my heart. Summers at Beaver Creek are incredible, for endless hiking, horseback riding, mini golf and bungee trampolines sum it up nicely. Plus the views from the top of the lift are worth your money on their own.