Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is located on the western slope of the Rocky Mountains in west-central Colorado. It exposes some of the steepest cliffs, oldest rock, and craggiest spires in North America. It was established as a national monument on March 2, 1933 and redesignated as a national park on October 21, 1999. Please note that there is an entrance fee.
The Ute Indian Museum connects the past with contemporary Ute life and culture. Exhibits focus on the Ute peoples’ history of adaptation and persistence, and unfold around a central theme of geography, highlighting significant locations in Ute history. And there’s free general admission for kids!
The mission of the Museum of the Mountain West (MMW) is to educate children and adults in the history and culture of the American West through the collecting, historic preservation, stewardship, restoration, and display of historical buildings and artifacts.
Make sure to look up the password to get in! Phelanies is a small speakeasy located across the street from Horsefly Brewing Company and it’s known for its great mixologists.
Visit one of Ouray’s sulfur-free hot springs. There are spots for kids to play and adult-only pools, too. If you’re feeling more adventurous, check out Orvis Hot Springs, which is a clothing optional hot springs resort.
If you have a bit more time, visit Ouray and drive the Million Dollar Highway. The Million Dollar Highway, a scenic but potentially treacherous route, is a 25-mile section of U.S. Route 550 in southwestern Colorado, specifically between Silverton and Ouray, known for breathtaking mountain views and winding roads. Though the entire 25-mile stretch is known as the Million Dollar Highway, it is really the 12 miles (19 km) south of Ouray through the Uncompahgre Gorge to the summit of Red Mountain Pass which gains the highway its name. Be warned, this drive is not for the faint of heart.