Cortez is a town in southwest Colorado with a rich history dating back to the days of the Anasazi Indians. There are plenty of things to do in Cortez, from hiking and biking to exploring the town’s museums and shops. No matter what your interests are, you’ll find something to do in Cortez.
Here is our list of the 15 Best Things To Do In Cortez Colorado:
Discover Ancient Sites at Mesa Verde
Mesa Verde National Park protects some of the best-preserved Ancestral Pueblo archaeological sites in the United States. The park occupies 52,485 acres near the Four Corners region of Colorado, with elevation ranging from about 6,000 to 8,572 feet. Mesa Verde (Spanish for “green table”) refers to the vast tableland that forms the heart of the park.
The Ancestral Pueblo people lived in the Mesa Verde region from about 600 to 1300 CE, developing a complex and rich culture. They built their homes and ceremonial structures into the sides of cliffs, taking advantage of natural solar exposure and defensive positions.
The first recorded exploration of Mesa Verde was in 1540, when Spanish conquistador Francisco Vásquez de Coronado led an expedition in search of the fabled Seven Cities of Gold. The first systematic archaeological study of the area was conducted in the late 1800s by Cliff Palace is the largest cliff dwelling in Mesa Verde. It was home to about 100-120 people, and contained about 150 rooms and 23 kivas (ceremonial structures).
Balcony House is another large cliff dwelling in Mesa Verde. It was named for the long, narrow balcony that runs along the front of the structure. This balcony was used to access the upper floors of the dwelling, and could be defended against attack.
Spruce Tree House is the third largest cliff dwelling in Mesa Verde. It gets its name from the spruce tree that grows out of the center of the structure. This tree is thought to be about 700 years old, and is a symbol of the long history of human habitation in Mesa Verde.
Mesa Verde is home to many other archaeological sites, including smaller cliff dwellings, villages, and farmsteads. The park also contains a variety of natural features, such as forests, meadows, and canyons.
Visiting Mesa Verde is a unique and memorable experience. The park offers a variety of ranger-led tours, as well as self-guided tours. There is also a museum and a research center, where you can learn more about the Ancestral Pueblo people and their culture.
Enjoy Outdoor Activities at the Denny Lake Park
Looking for fun things to do in Cortez, Colorado? Check out the Denny Lake Park! The park is located just minutes from downtown and offers a variety of outdoor activities for all ages.
The Denny Lake Park is a great place to take a walk, go for a swim, or just relax and enjoy the scenery. There are also a number of picnic tables and benches located throughout the park, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic lunch or an afternoon snack.
The park also features a playground, making it a great place to take the kids. The playground equipment is suitable for children of all ages and includes a variety of swings, slides, and monkey bars.
In addition to the playground, the park also has a basketball court, a sand volleyball court, and a horseshoe pit. So, whether you’re looking for a place to play a game of hoops or just want to practice your volleyball skills, the Denny Lake Park has you covered.
The Denny Lake Park is open daily from dawn to dusk and is located at the corner of Cortez Boulevard and Denny Drive. So, next time you’re looking for something fun to do in Cortez, Colorado, be sure to check out the Denny Lake Park!
Experience Farm-To-Table Dining at the Farm Bistro
If you’re looking for an authentic farm-to-table dining experience, look no further than the Farm Bistro in Cortez, Colorado. This unique restaurant is located on a working farm, so you can be sure that the food is fresh and locally sourced.
The menu at the Farm Bistro changes regularly, depending on what’s in season. But you can always expect to find a variety of fresh salads, soups, and sandwiches, as well as a selection of entrees that feature meats and vegetables from the farm. There’s also a kids’ menu, so the whole family can enjoy a meal at the Farm Bistro.
In addition to the great food, the Farm Bistro also offers a beautiful setting. The restaurant is located in a converted barn, and the dining room has views of the surrounding farmland. You can even watch the farmers at work while you enjoy your meal.
The Farm Bistro is open for lunch and dinner, Tuesday through Saturday. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends. So if you’re looking for a unique farm-to-table dining experience, be sure to check out the Farm Bistro in Cortez, Colorado.
Check Out the Gallery Show at Notah Dineh Trading Co
Notah Dineh Trading Co is hosting a gallery show featuring the work of local artist Marlene Watson. The show will be on display from October 1-31, and will feature a variety of Watson’s paintings and sculptures.
Watson is a self-taught artist who has been creating art for over 30 years. Her work is inspired by her love of nature and the world around her. She often uses found objects in her work, and her paintings are known for their bright colors and unique compositions.
This will be a great opportunity to see some of Watson’s work in person, and to learn more about her process and inspirations. The show will be open to the public during regular business hours, and there is no charge to view the artwork.
Join a Pottery Workshop at Cortez Cultural Center
Cortez is a beautiful town located in the southwest corner of Colorado. The town is rich in history and culture, and is home to the Mesa Verde National Park. If you’re looking for things to do in Cortez, Colorado, you should definitely consider taking a pottery workshop at the Cortez Cultural Center.
The Cortez Cultural Center is a great place to learn about the town’s history and culture. The center offers a variety of classes and workshops, including pottery. The pottery workshop is a great way to learn about the town’s history and culture, and to create something beautiful that you can take home with you.
The workshop will teach you how to make a variety of pottery items, including vases, bowls, and plates. You’ll also learn about the history of pottery in Cortez, and how it’s used today.
The workshop is a great way to spend a day in Cortez. You’ll get to meet new people, learn about the town’s history and culture, and create something beautiful that you can take home with you.
Learn to Quilt at Cortez Quilt Company
Have you ever wanted to learn to quilt? The Cortez Quilt Company offers a wide variety of classes for quilters of all skill levels. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced quilter, we have a class for you!
Our classes are taught by experienced and certified instructors, and we offer a wide variety of class topics. We have classes on traditional quilting, machine quilting, longarm quilting, and more! We also offer speciality classes, like our popular “Quilt in a Day” class, where you can complete a small quilt top in just one day!
Whether you are looking for a fun new hobby or you want to take your quilting skills to the next level, we invite you to come and learn with us at the Cortez Quilt Company!
Enjoy Organized Tours at Canyon Trails Ranch
When you visit Canyon Trails Ranch, you can enjoy a variety of organized tours. These tours are great for those who want to explore the area and learn more about the history and culture of the region.
The first tour that you can take is the Mesa Verde National Park Tour. This tour will take you through some of the most beautiful and historic sites in the park. You will also get to see some of the amazing views of the canyons and Mesa Verde.
The second tour is the Four Corners Monument Tour. This tour will take you to the four corners of the United States. You will get to see the amazing views of the canyons and the Mesa Verde.
The third tour is the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Tour. This tour will take you through some of the most scenic areas in the country. You will also get to experience the amazing views of the canyons and the Mesa Verde.
The fourth tour is the Grand Canyon National Park Tour. This tour will take you to one of the most popular national parks in the United States. You will also get to see the amazing views of the canyons and the Mesa Verde.
The fifth tour is the Pikes Peak Tour. This tour will take you to the top of Pikes Peak. You will also get to see the amazing views of the canyons and the Mesa Verde.
The sixth tour is the Yellowstone National Park Tour. This tour will take you to one of the most popular national parks in the United States. You will also get to see the amazing views of the canyons and the Mesa Verde.
The seventh tour is the Yosemite National Park Tour. This tour will take you to one of the most popular national parks in the United States. You will also get to see the amazing views of the canyons and the Mesa Verde.
The eighth tour is the Grand Teton National Park Tour. This tour will take you to one of the most popular national parks in the United States. You will also get to see the amazing views of the canyons and the Mesa Verde.
The ninth tour is the Glacier National Park Tour. This tour will take you to one of the most popular national parks in the United States. You will also get to see the amazing views of the canyons and the Mesa Verde.
The tenth tour is the Mt. Rushmore National Monument Tour. This tour will take you to one of the most popular national parks in the United States. You will also get to see the amazing views of the canyons and the Mesa Verde.
Visit the Famous Cajon Group
Cortez is a small town in southwestern Colorado with a rich history. The town was founded in the 1800s and was once a thriving mining town. Today, Cortez is a popular tourist destination for its proximity to Mesa Verde National Park and its many outdoor activities.
One of the most popular things to do in Cortez is to visit the famous Cajon Group. The Cajon Group is a collection of ancient Puebloan dwellings that are located just outside of town. The dwellings are believed to be over 700 years old and are some of the best-preserved examples of Puebloan architecture in the country.
Visitors to the Cajon Group can explore the ruins of the dwellings and learn about the history of the people who lived there. The site is also a great place to take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
If you’re looking for a unique experience, be sure to add a visit to the Cajon Group to your list of things to do in Cortez!
See Live Shows at the Sunflower Theater
Looking for something fun to do in Cortez, Colorado? Check out the Sunflower Theater! The Sunflower Theater is a great place to see live shows and performances. The theater is located in the heart of downtown Cortez and is within walking distance of many restaurants and shops. The theater has a wide variety of shows and events that are sure to please everyone in the family.
The Sunflower Theater is a historic theater that was built in the early 1900s. The theater has been renovated and is now a state-of-the-art facility. The theater is equipped with the latest in sound and lighting technology. The theater also has a large stage that is perfect for live performances. The Sunflower Theater is the perfect place to see a live show or performance.
The Sunflower Theater is a great place to take the family. The theater offers a wide variety of shows and events that are sure to please everyone in the family. The theater is also a great place to take a date. The theater has a wide variety of shows and events that are sure to please everyone in the family.
The Sunflower Theater is a great place to see live shows and performances. The theater is located in the heart of downtown Cortez and is within walking distance of many restaurants and shops. The theater has a wide variety of shows and events that are sure to please everyone in the family.
Sip Fine Wine at the Sutcliffe Vineyards
Cortez is a small town in southwest Colorado with a lot to offer visitors. One of the best things to do in Cortez is to visit the Sutcliffe Vineyards.
The Sutcliffe Vineyards are located just outside of town and offer a variety of wines to taste. You can also purchase bottles of wine to take home with you. The vineyards offer a beautiful setting to relax and enjoy the wine.
The Sutcliffe Vineyards offer a variety of events throughout the year. There are wine tastings, live music, and even a farmers market. The vineyards are a great place to visit if you are looking for things to do in Cortez Colorado.
Join an Educational Tour at Crow Canyon Archaeological Center
Crow Canyon Archaeological Center is a world-renowned research facility and educational institution dedicated to studying the prehistory of the Ancestral Pueblo people. Located in the Four Corners region of the American Southwest, Crow Canyon offers a variety of ways for the public to engage with its research and programs.
One of the most popular ways to experience Crow Canyon is through one of the Center’s educational tours. These tours are led by knowledgeable and experienced guides who will share stories about the Ancestral Pueblo people and the archaeology of the region. Tours typically last two to three hours and include a visit to an excavation site, a tour of a replica pit house, and a hike to a nearby mesa top.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a unique and educational experience, a tour at Crow Canyon is sure to please. Tours are offered daily and reservations are recommended. For more information, or to make a reservation, please visit the Crow Canyon website or call (970) 564-4455.
Test Your Golfing Skills at Conquistador Golf Course
Conquistador Golf Course is a great place to test your golfing skills. The course is located in Cortez, Colorado and is open to the public. The course is a par 72 and has a length of 6,500 yards. The course is also home to a driving range, pro shop, and restaurant. The course is open year-round and offers a variety of membership options.
Enjoy Mexican Cuisine at La Casita de Cortez
After a long day of hiking in the beautiful San Juan Mountains, you’re going to want a filling and delicious meal. And what better place to enjoy Mexican cuisine than La Casita de Cortez? This family-owned restaurant has been a Cortez staple since 1996, serving up fresh and authentic Mexican dishes.
One of the most popular items on the menu is the enchiladas suizas, made with chicken, green chile, and Swiss cheese. The green chile is grown right here in Colorado and gives the dish a perfect amount of spice. The enchiladas are served with refried beans and rice, making for a hearty and satisfying meal.
If you’re in the mood for something lighter, try the shrimp ceviche. The shrimp is cooked in lime juice and mixed with onions, cilantro, and avocado. It’s the perfect refresher after a day in the Colorado sun.
No matter what you order, you’ll want to start your meal with La Casita’s homemade chips and salsa. The chips are nice and thick, perfect for scooping up the restaurant’s signature salsa. The salsa is made with fresh tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños and has a perfectly balance of flavor.
So next time you’re in Cortez, be sure to stop by La Casita de Cortez for some of the best Mexican food in town. You won’t be disappointed!
Enjoy Pad Thai at Thai Cortez & Sushi
When you’re in the mood for some delicious Thai food, head over to Thai Cortez & Sushi. This cozy spot is perfect for a date night or a night out with friends. Start off with an order of the spring rolls, which come filled with veggies and served with a sweet chili sauce. Then, move on to the pad Thai. This dish is made with rice noodles, chicken, shrimp, and a variety of vegetables. The flavors all come together perfectly, and the dish is garnished with peanuts, bean sprouts, and cilantro. If you’re looking for something a little lighter, try the Thai salad, which is made with lettuce, cucumber, and carrot, and served with a peanut dressing. And don’t forget to save room for dessert! The mango with sticky rice is a must-try.
Have Breakfast at the Pie Maker Bakery
If you love pie, then you’ll want to check out the Pie Maker Bakery in Cortez, Colorado. This bakery is known for its delicious pies, and they have a wide selection to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a traditional pie or something more unique, you’re sure to find it at the Pie Maker Bakery.
The bakery is located in downtown Cortez, and it’s easy to find. Once you’re there, you’ll be able to see all of the pies that they have to offer. The staff is friendly and helpful, and they’ll be able to answer any questions that you have.
If you’re looking for a particular type of pie, you can ask the staff for recommendations. They’re always happy to help you find the perfect pie for your taste.
Once you’ve decided on a pie, you can take it to go or enjoy it in the bakery. The bakery has a few tables inside, so you can sit down and enjoy your pie.
The Pie Maker Bakery is a great place to go for a delicious pie. Whether you’re looking for a traditional pie or something more unique, you’re sure to find it at the Pie Maker Bakery.