{"id":72689,"date":"2025-11-05T08:56:20","date_gmt":"2025-11-05T15:56:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.uchealth.org\/today\/?p=72689"},"modified":"2025-11-05T09:56:53","modified_gmt":"2025-11-05T16:56:53","slug":"fun-free-things-to-do-in-colorado","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.uchealth.org\/today\/fun-free-things-to-do-in-colorado\/","title":{"rendered":"Fun, free things to do in Colorado"},"content":{"rendered":"<div style=\"margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;\" class=\"sharethis-inline-share-buttons\" ><\/div><figure id=\"attachment_86693\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-86693\" style=\"width: 640px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-86693\" src=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2024\/10\/05093321\/NCAA-courtesy-staff-describe-solar-science-web.webp\" alt=\"The U.S. National Science Foundation national Center for Atmospheric Reserach Mesa Lab is in Boulder and offers hands-on educational opportunities year round. Photo courtesy of the NSF NCAR.\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-86693\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The U.S. National Science Foundation&#8217;s National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) Mesa Lab, located in Boulder,\u00a0offers hands-on educational opportunities year-round. Photo courtesy of the NSF NCAR.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Are you looking for fun, free things to do in Colorado? Would you enjoy spending more time outdoors and less time shopping or on screens during every season of the year? Or do you need new ideas for cultural institutions you can visit?<\/p>\n<div class=\"su-callout-box col-xs-12 col-sm-6 right\" style=\"background-color:#dce4e7; color:#2e3b44;\">\n<h4><strong>Also check out:<\/strong><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.uchealth.org\/today\/accessible-trails-and-natural-areas-in-colorado\/\">Accessible trails and natural areas throughout Colorado<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.uchealth.org\/today\/mindfulness-activities-try-bird-watching\/\">Places to try bird-watching<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.uchealth.org\/today\/social-dogs-safe-people-off-leash-dog-parks-you-can-explore-during-the-covid-19-pandemic\/\">Fun Colorado dog parks<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.uchealth.org\/today\/free-days-national-parks-monuments-historic-sites-in-colorado\/\">Free days in Colorado National Parks, Monuments and Historic Areas<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.uchealth.org\/today\/colorado-hot-springs-soak-relax-recharge\/\">Colorado hot springs<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.uchealth.org\/today\/visit-a-castle-in-colorado-hikes-getaways-teas-tours\/\">Castles in Colorado<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.uchealth.org\/today\/top-outdoor-skating-spots-in-colorado\/\">Outdoor ice skating in Colorado<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.uchealth.org\/today\/free-days-at-denver-cultural-institutions\/\">Free days at Denver&#8217;s famous cultural institutions<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<p>We&#8217;ve got you covered with fresh ideas for fun, free adventures in various parts of the Centennial State.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Fun, free things to do in Colorado Springs<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>People come from all over the world to visit Colorado Springs. For people who call Colorado home, you have no excuse! Get out and enjoy the many attractions in the Pikes Peak region. Best of all, some of them are free. Here are five terrific outings to consider:<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Garden of the Gods<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>This city park is worthy of national recognition, with its stunning red sandstone formations \u2013 eruptions, spires and hogbacks \u2013 that make a scenic setting for a leisurely (or not) stroll. Stand at a certain point and you\u2019ll see Pikes Peak framed between the Kissing Camels. Stunning, especially when there\u2019s snow on the mountain.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_26503\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-26503\" style=\"width: 640px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large wp-image-26503\" src=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/09\/16125156\/Garden-of-Gods1.jpgtiny.webp\" alt=\"A photo of Garden of the Gods\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" srcset=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/09\/16125156\/Garden-of-Gods1.jpgtiny.webp 1200w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/09\/16125156\/Garden-of-Gods1.jpgtiny-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/09\/16125156\/Garden-of-Gods1.jpgtiny-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/09\/16125156\/Garden-of-Gods1.jpgtiny-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/09\/16125156\/Garden-of-Gods1.jpgtiny-150x100.webp 150w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/09\/16125156\/Garden-of-Gods1.jpgtiny-200x133.webp 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-26503\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Garden of the Gods is spectacular and one of the must-see free attractions in Colorado Springs. Photo by Rick DuVal.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Check out the informative and entertaining visitors\u2019 center for advice on hikes, rock climbing, wildlife encounters and free programs. Ranger-guided talks and wellness walks are among the many offerings. Don\u2019t be surprised to encounter a group of Olympic cyclists spinning by for a daily workout. Plan to do some walking.<\/p>\n<p>And be aware that wildlife believe the park is theirs. Don\u2019t hike alone, always carry water and please don\u2019t pick the wildflowers.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gardenofgods.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Plan your visit and learn about current programs.\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n<h3><strong>U.S. Air Force Academy<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>This national landmark military institution is open to casual visitors. Drive through the grounds. Visit the architecturally remarkable <a href=\"https:\/\/www.usafa.edu\/facilities\/cadet-chapel\/\">interdenominational chapel<\/a>. (Although, right now, it is closed for renovations. Estimated completion is 2028)<\/p>\n<p>Stop at the 31,000-square-foot visitor\u2019s center and museum to see the exhibits, and maybe even take a short nature hike. Occasionally, the planetarium is open to the public for some stargazing. Please be aware that there is a process to follow when visiting, so plan ahead.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.usafa.edu\/visitors\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Learn more about hours and public access.<\/a><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Housed in the beautifully preserved 1903 El Paso County Courthouse, the museum has both a permanent local history collection and fascinating rotating exhibits, which range from art to local cultural icons. The museum also hosts family-friendly events and sponsors numerous downtown events, including the <a id=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cspm.org\/FESTIVALOFLIGHTS\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Festival of Lights parade<\/a> each holiday season. History lectures and other events are posted monthly on its website.<\/p>\n<p>The building is a museum piece in itself. Take a moment to appreciate the extravagant architecture of another era, featuring pillars and a vast marble staircase. <a id=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.cspm.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Learn about hours, events and exhibits.<\/a><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Penrose Heritage Museum<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Formerly the El Pomar Carriage House Museum, it is located in The Broadmoor Hotel complex, next to the underground parking garage. This under-visited attraction was started in 1941 by the hotel\u2019s founder, Spencer Penrose, and includes carriages, coaches, wagons and cars that carried local dignitaries and a few U.S. presidents, all dating from the early 20<sup>th<\/sup> century.<\/p>\n<p>A permanent Pikes Peak Hill Climb exhibit has been added and features unique cars from the internationally famous race, plus an easy-to-follow set of plaques detailing its sometimes scary history.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.visitcos.com\/directory\/penrose-heritage-museum\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Take a step back in time at this fun museum.<\/a><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>This 100-year-old institution showcases a diverse range of art, from high-end Western pieces to ultra-contemporary exhibits. The lovely Art Deco building includes a seamless addition with extensive galleries. OK, it\u2019s not free most of the time. But there are free days, and you should take advantage of them. <a id=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/fac.coloradocollege.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Plan your visit to the Fine Arts Center at Colorado College<\/a> and discover its free admission <a id=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/fac.coloradocollege.edu\/museum\/museum-free-day\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">days<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Fun, free things to do in Boulder<\/strong><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_27584\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-27584\" style=\"width: 640px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large wp-image-27584\" src=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18123339\/Boulder-main-pic-tiny.webp\" alt=\"A view of the Flatirons in Boulder with a pink sky. If you're looking for fun free things to do in Boulder, Chautauqua Park is a great place.\" width=\"640\" height=\"394\" srcset=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18123339\/Boulder-main-pic-tiny.webp 1200w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18123339\/Boulder-main-pic-tiny-300x185.webp 300w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18123339\/Boulder-main-pic-tiny-1024x631.webp 1024w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18123339\/Boulder-main-pic-tiny-768x474.webp 768w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18123339\/Boulder-main-pic-tiny-150x93.webp 150w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18123339\/Boulder-main-pic-tiny-200x123.webp 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-27584\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Chautauqua Park in Boulder is a beautiful spot to enjoy a hike. Boulder&#8217;s distinctive Flatirons jut up in the background. Photo: Getty Images.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>When you arrive in Boulder, the view is breathtaking and distinctive. You\u2019ll see the steep, angled rock formations, known as the Flatirons, jutting from the foothills into the sky, and the craggy Indian Peaks towering over them in the distance to the west.<\/p>\n<p>Boulder\u2019s natural beauty is one of its claims to fame. Similarly, its world-class athletes also love to train in this high-altitude mecca. They also famously indulge in healthy food and drinks, so Boulder has given rise to health-based businesses, such as the Celestial Seasons Tea Company.<\/p>\n<p>Boulder is also an academic incubator with the flagship campus of the University of Colorado. Some of the nation\u2019s top scientists are also headquartered here at national labs. Enjoy these five free things to do in Boulder, and you\u2019ll soon get a feel for Boulder\u2019s unique beauty and personality.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Stroll or run the Boulder Creek Path<\/strong><\/h3>\n<figure id=\"attachment_27590\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-27590\" style=\"width: 306px\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-27590\" src=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18133046\/Boulder-Creek-path-CU-tiny.webp\" alt=\"The Boulder Creek Path is a great place to walk or run.\" width=\"306\" height=\"309\" srcset=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18133046\/Boulder-Creek-path-CU-tiny.webp 306w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18133046\/Boulder-Creek-path-CU-tiny-297x300.webp 297w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18133046\/Boulder-Creek-path-CU-tiny-150x150.webp 150w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18133046\/Boulder-Creek-path-CU-tiny-200x202.webp 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 306px) 100vw, 306px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-27590\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Boulder Creek Path is an ideal spot for relaxation, walking, or running. Photo: University of Colorado Boulder.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Want to work out with those famous Boulder athletes? Check out the beautiful <a id=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/bouldercolorado.gov\/locations\/boulder-creek-path\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Boulder Creek Path<\/a>. The future Olympians may run faster than most, but people of all ages and abilities can enjoy the paved path that runs about 5.5 miles from Boulder Canyon on the west to the <a href=\"https:\/\/bouldercolorado.gov\/locations\/gerald-stazio-softball-fields\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Stazio ball fields<\/a> on the east.<\/p>\n<p>A great spot along the Boulder Creek Path, any time of year, is Eben G. Fine Park. In the summer, the park is full of people picnicking, wading in the creek, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uchealth.org\/today\/great-colorado-summer-tubing-floats\/\">tubing when the water levels are safe<\/a>. During other seasons, it&#8217;s a peaceful place to enjoy natural beauty.<\/p>\n<p>Fine was a Boulder businessman and booster for the city, who was once known as \u201cMr. Boulder.\u201d Now, whether you\u2019re walking your dog, tubing, walking or running along the creek, you can thank Fine for helping make Boulder one of the nation\u2019s most beautiful cities.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Go for a bike ride at Valmont Bike Park<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><a id=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/bouldercolorado.gov\/locations\/valmont-bike-park\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Valmont Bike Park<\/a> is a 42-acre natural surface cycling terrain park offering diverse amenities for riders of all styles and abilities.<\/p>\n<p>The park is free and open daily from dawn to dusk as weather and trail conditions allow. For updates, see the\u00a0<a id=\"\" title=\"Facebook - Valmont Bike Park\" href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/valmontbikepark\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Valmont Bike Park Facebook page<\/a>\u00a0or the\u00a0<a id=\"\" title=\"Valmont Bike Park Twitter Feed\" href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/bikevalmont\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">X feed<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Please respect the Valmont Bike Park closures due to weather conditions.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Hike in Chautauqua Park<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>The Boulder area was originally home to the indigenous Southern Arapahoe tribe.<\/p>\n<p>Newcomers seeking gold settled the area, and as Boulder developed, early leaders sought to set aside open space while promoting the Chautauqua movement, which focused on art, preservation, education and enlightenment.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_27588\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-27588\" style=\"width: 200px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-27588\" src=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18131952\/Hiking-in-Chautauqua-tiny.webp\" alt=\"Hiking in Chautauqua Park in Boulder.\" width=\"200\" height=\"185\" srcset=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18131952\/Hiking-in-Chautauqua-tiny.webp 200w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18131952\/Hiking-in-Chautauqua-tiny-150x139.webp 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-27588\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Chautauqua Park is a beautiful place to hike any time of the year. Photo: University of Colorado Boulder.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Back in 1898, Colorado Chautauqua was born, and Boulder residents agreed to spend public funds to create Boulder&#8217;s stunning <a id=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/bouldercolorado.gov\/locations\/chautauqua-park\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Chautauqua Park<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Colorado Chautauqua is one of the few remaining institutions of its type in the U.S. It features a learning center, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.chautauqua.com\/dining-hall\/overview\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Chautauqua Dining Hall<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.chautauqua.com\/lodging\/cottages-lodges\/overview\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">cottages<\/a> and a public park with great hiking trails.<\/p>\n<p>Stop at the ranger&#8217;s cottage and pick up a hiking map, along with some advice. A fun loop takes you up the Bluebell Road to Woods Quarry, then you can return via the Enchanted Mesa.<\/p>\n<p>The hiking options at Chautauqua are endless. So, too, are the crowds. Boulder now has a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/bouldercolorado.gov\/services\/park-to-park-shuttle\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">free shuttle system<\/a>. Parking here can be a big challenge, so you would be wise to consider using the shuttle. Chautauqua is also a great place to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uchealth.org\/today\/eight-great-spots-to-hike-with-your-dog\/\">hike with your dogs<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Visit the National Center for Atmospheric Research, also known as NCAR Mesa Lab<\/strong><\/h3>\n<figure id=\"attachment_27585\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-27585\" style=\"width: 640px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large wp-image-27585\" src=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18123342\/NCAR-tiny.webp\" alt=\"The National Center for Atmospheric Research or NCAR sits on a beautiful bluff in Boulder.\" width=\"640\" height=\"318\" srcset=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18123342\/NCAR-tiny.webp 1200w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18123342\/NCAR-tiny-300x149.webp 300w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18123342\/NCAR-tiny-1024x509.webp 1024w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18123342\/NCAR-tiny-768x382.webp 768w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18123342\/NCAR-tiny-150x75.webp 150w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18123342\/NCAR-tiny-200x100.webp 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-27585\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Boulder&#8217;s National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) is a beautiful building designed by famed architect I.M. Pei. The location is also spectacular. Photo: NCAR.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The scientists at NCAR study all things atmospheric, and that includes weather, water, climate and air quality. But you don\u2019t have to be a science nerd to enjoy a visit to NCAR. The location, which hugs Boulder\u2019s foothills, is spectacular and famed architect I.M. Pei designed the concrete and limestone building. Visitors are free to hike around NCAR as well.<\/p>\n<p>NCAR\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/scied.ucar.edu\/visit\/ncar-public-tours\">Visitor Center<\/a> is open 363 days a year, with tours available. But, you can also explore on your own on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and weekends from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (NCAR is closed for maintenance two days a year, so check online or call in advance to make your plans.) <a id=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/scied.ucar.edu\/apps\/tour-app\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Download the NCAR app to enjoy self-guided tours.<\/a><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Visit Old Main at the University of Colorado campus. Learn about astronauts and see a moon rock.<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Stroll around the beautiful University of Colorado campus and you\u2019ll quickly understand why CU is such a popular choice for students from Colorado, elsewhere in the U.S. and around the world. The <a id=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.uchealth.org\/today\/deion-coach-prime-sanders-takes-the-lead-on-ready-set-co\/\">popularity of CU Buffs and Deion Sanders<\/a> has only made Boulder even more popular for visits. A fun place to check out (in addition to catching a Buffs football game) is Old Main.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_27589\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-27589\" style=\"width: 600px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-27589\" src=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18131954\/Old-Main-mountains-tiny.webp\" alt=\"Old Main at the University of Colorado in Boulder with the snow-dusted Flatirons in the background\" width=\"600\" height=\"322\" srcset=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18131954\/Old-Main-mountains-tiny.webp 600w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18131954\/Old-Main-mountains-tiny-300x161.webp 300w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18131954\/Old-Main-mountains-tiny-150x81.webp 150w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2019\/11\/18131954\/Old-Main-mountains-tiny-200x107.webp 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-27589\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Old Main at the University of Colorado&#8217;s flagship campus in Boulder, with the snow-dusted Flatirons in the background. Photo: University of Colorado Boulder.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Stop in Old Main, the original building on campus, and visit the CU <a href=\"https:\/\/www.colorado.edu\/alumni\/heritagecenter\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Heritage Center<\/a> on the third floor for free.<\/p>\n<p>There, you\u2019ll find an exhibit that celebrates astronauts who attended CU. There\u2019s a replica of Jack Swigert, a CU alum who flew on the Apollo 13 mission. (The original statue of Swigert is on display at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.) The Heritage Center also boasts a moon rock on loan from NASA. It\u2019s from a different Apollo mission.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Fun, free things to do in northern Colorado<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Looking for great activities in Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley and other areas of northern Colorado that won&#8217;t break the bank? Pick one of these great places to visit and take a day to explore the rich history and beauty of northern Colorado.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Ron Stewart Preserve at Rabbit Mountain<\/strong><\/h3>\n<figure id=\"attachment_29526\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-29526\" style=\"width: 800px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-29526\" src=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101307\/tiny-rabbit-mountain-1920x5-1.webp\" alt=\"A view from Rabbit Mountain of the valley below.\" width=\"800\" height=\"208\" srcset=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101307\/tiny-rabbit-mountain-1920x5-1.webp 800w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101307\/tiny-rabbit-mountain-1920x5-1-300x78.webp 300w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101307\/tiny-rabbit-mountain-1920x5-1-768x200.webp 768w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101307\/tiny-rabbit-mountain-1920x5-1-150x39.webp 150w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101307\/tiny-rabbit-mountain-1920x5-1-200x52.webp 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-29526\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">A view from Rabbit Mountain. Photo: Boulder County.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Located on the edge of the foothills west of Longmont, Rabbit Mountain was the ideal winter home for the Arapaho tribes. Its history also entails unsuccessful gold claims and unique and complicated water conservation efforts. Since 2016, the mountain has included the Ron Stewart Preserve, which provides a place for nature to thrive.<\/p>\n<p>Enter the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bouldercounty.org\/open-space\/parks-and-trails\/ron-stewart-preserve-rabbit-mountain\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Ron Stewart Preserve<\/a> off N. 55<sup>th<\/sup> Street, north of Colorado Highway 66. Look for the covered picnic area and parking. From there, you have three hiking options for easy to moderate trails, including the moderate 2-mile Eagle Wind Trail loop (163 feet elevation change going clockwise). Grab your wildflower field guide \u2013 this trail is abundant with new life in the spring months.<\/p>\n<p>There\u2019s also the Little Thompson Overlook Trail (1.5 miles with 354 feet elevation change) and the Indian Mesa Trail (2.2 miles with 287 feet elevation change). The overlook trail provides a great view of the area\u2019s topography.<\/p>\n<p>All three trails offer great views, and if you decide you want to get up early and miss the crowds altogether, this area is splendid for viewing spectacular sunrises.<\/p>\n<p>Along the trails you\u2019ll see native Colorado plant life and birds \u2014 maybe even a golden eagle. Like many of Colorado\u2019s \u201cfoothills\u201d trails, there is a risk of running into rattlesnakes. Always stay on the paths and be mindful of your step. In wetter months, make sure to wear appropriate footwear; the trails can get muddy and slick.<\/p>\n<p>Motorized bikes are not permitted, but horses, bicycles, hikers and dogs on leashes are welcome.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Island Grove Park, the gateway to the Poudre River Trail<\/strong><\/h3>\n<figure id=\"attachment_29537\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-29537\" style=\"width: 640px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-29537\" src=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04104949\/tiny-river-bluffs1.webp\" alt=\"poudre river with fall colors\" width=\"640\" height=\"426\" srcset=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04104949\/tiny-river-bluffs1.webp 800w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04104949\/tiny-river-bluffs1-300x200.webp 300w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04104949\/tiny-river-bluffs1-768x511.webp 768w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04104949\/tiny-river-bluffs1-150x100.webp 150w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04104949\/tiny-river-bluffs1-200x133.webp 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-29537\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The River Bluffs Open Space area at the Poudre River along the trail. Photo: Larimer County.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The Cache la Poudre River is the lifeblood of the northern Colorado region. Exploring the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.larimer.org\/naturalresources\/parks\/regional-paved-trails\/poudre-river-trail\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Poudre River Trail<\/a> is a great way to experience its beauty, wildlife and history.<\/p>\n<p>When completed, the trail will extend over 40 miles. Here is a <a id=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/poudretrail.org\/maps\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">map of all its sections<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/greeleyco.gov\/things-to-do\/parks-and-recreation\/island-grove-regional-park\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Island Grove Park in Greeley<\/a> is the gateway to the trail. Its name comes from the original stand of cottonwood trees that grew along the river and once used as a burial site by the Arapaho, Cheyenne and Sioux tribes. It\u2019s now home to the city\u2019s famous <a href=\"https:\/\/www.greeleystampede.org\/p\/about-us\/our-roots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Greeley Stampede<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>If you start at Island Grove Park and head west, you can take the trail 21 miles to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.larimer.org\/naturalresources\/parks\/river-bluffs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">River Bluffs Open Space<\/a> trailhead, near County Road 32 E and South County Road 3 (beside Ptarmigan Golf Course, just east of Interstate 25 and the Windsor exit).<\/p>\n<p>On Oct. 17, 2024, an additional half-mile section was opened to the public in Timnath, connecting Arapaho Bend Natural Area in southeast Fort Collins to Timnath.\u00a0 There is also an approximate 15-mile <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fcgov.com\/parks\/trails.php\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">section in Fort Collins<\/a>, which runs from the CSU Environmental Learning Center off Ziegler Road northwest along the river to the small town of Bellvue, on the edge of the foothills.<\/p>\n<p>There are many places to access the Poudre River Trail, whether for fishing, cycling, walking, bird-watching or picnicking. The trails are paved and have restrooms and picnicking spots, and there are many designated natural areas along this trail that might inspire you to return for another day\u2019s adventure.<\/p>\n<p>Historical and recreational attractions can be found along the way. For instance, a whitewater park opened in the fall of 2019 in Fort Collins, Colorado, on Highway 287, just off the Poudre River Trail.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_29530\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-29530\" style=\"width: 640px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-29530\" src=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101317\/tiny-whitewater-park-city-g.webp\" alt=\"whitewater park along the poudre trail is one of the free things to do in northern Colorado.\" width=\"640\" height=\"414\" srcset=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101317\/tiny-whitewater-park-city-g.webp 800w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101317\/tiny-whitewater-park-city-g-300x194.webp 300w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101317\/tiny-whitewater-park-city-g-768x497.webp 768w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101317\/tiny-whitewater-park-city-g-150x97.webp 150w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101317\/tiny-whitewater-park-city-g-200x130.webp 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-29530\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">City of Fort Collins Whitewater Park, completed in October 2019, is along the Poudre Trail at Colorado Highway 287. Photo: Grant Smith\/City of Fort Collins.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h3><strong>Benson Sculpture Garden<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>As you meander through Benson Sculpture Garden in Loveland, you may dwell on the freedom of youth, the curiosity of life, and nature in its most primal state.<\/p>\n<p>There are approximately 200 permanent sculptures situated throughout the park, which are attractive and captivating for visitors of all ages. Benson Sculpture Garden has held the No. 1 spot for Loveland attractions on TripAdvisor for many years, according to representatives with the Loveland High Plains Arts Council.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_29523\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-29523\" style=\"width: 640px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-29523\" src=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101300\/tiny-Benson-Park-Pavillion.webp\" alt=\"Pavilion and sculpture of girl balancing on a ball at Benson Scupture Garden, one of several great free things to do in northern Colorado.\" width=\"640\" height=\"435\" srcset=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101300\/tiny-Benson-Park-Pavillion.webp 800w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101300\/tiny-Benson-Park-Pavillion-300x204.webp 300w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101300\/tiny-Benson-Park-Pavillion-768x522.webp 768w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101300\/tiny-Benson-Park-Pavillion-150x102.webp 150w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101300\/tiny-Benson-Park-Pavillion-200x136.webp 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-29523\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Looking for free things to do in northern Colorado? Bring your lunch and spend time on the benches or in the pavilion during your visit to Benson Sculpture Garden in Loveland. Photo: Loveland High Plains Arts Council.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The pieces are stable; they can be touched and felt. You can walk around them, and they\u2019re very interactive.<\/p>\n<p>Bring your lunch and spend time on benches or in the pavilion. Groups of 10 or more can also arrange a tour (call several weeks in advance) with a volunteer artist, who will guide you through the park, providing interesting information about the sculptures. Children can visit the \u201cchildren\u2019s park\u201d within the garden as well.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_29535\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-29535\" style=\"width: 296px\" class=\"wp-caption alignleft\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-29535\" src=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04103022\/tiny-PotatoMan-e1583344967746.webp\" alt=\"sculpture of old man carrying bucket of potatoes at a park.\" width=\"296\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04103022\/tiny-PotatoMan-e1583344967746.webp 400w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04103022\/tiny-PotatoMan-e1583344967746-296x300.webp 296w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04103022\/tiny-PotatoMan-e1583344967746-148x150.webp 148w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04103022\/tiny-PotatoMan-e1583344967746-200x203.webp 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 296px) 100vw, 296px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-29535\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">One of the sculptures at the Benson Sculpture Garden in Loveland is a great free thing to do in northern Colorado. Photo: Craig Van Wechel.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>And don\u2019t overlook the new pieces of the park on the other side of 29<sup>th<\/sup> Street.<\/p>\n<p>Altogether, the art is valued at over $5 million. Each piece was purchased through the fundraising efforts of the Loveland High Plains Arts Council and its annual event.<\/p>\n<p>The park at 2908 Aspen Drive is free and open year-round, except for the second weekend in August during the annual \u201cSculpture in the Park\u201d show and sale. Proceeds from the show supported the expansion of the garden and the art within. The event is now one of the largest outdoor sculpture shows in the country, with sales exceeding $1 million.<\/p>\n<p>The Benson Sculpture Garden was founded in 1985. The property was part of the Benson family homestead in the late 1800s. In 1971, Robert and Ralph Benson donated a portion of the farm to the City of Loveland.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Stroll through Old Town Fort Collins<\/strong><\/h3>\n<figure id=\"attachment_29525\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-29525\" style=\"width: 640px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-29525\" src=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101304\/tiny-oldTownSquare-Bohemian.webp\" alt=\"Arial view of a full Fort Collins Old Time Square during live music event, which is a free thing to do in northern Colorado during the summer months.\" width=\"640\" height=\"412\" srcset=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101304\/tiny-oldTownSquare-Bohemian.webp 800w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101304\/tiny-oldTownSquare-Bohemian-300x193.webp 300w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101304\/tiny-oldTownSquare-Bohemian-768x494.webp 768w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101304\/tiny-oldTownSquare-Bohemian-150x97.webp 150w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101304\/tiny-oldTownSquare-Bohemian-200x129.webp 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-29525\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Old Town Square hosts numerous free events, including Bohemian Nights Presents: Thursday Night Live, which takes place in the summer months. Photo: Bohemian Nights.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>In 1984, forward-thinking by the city of Fort Collins began to turn the city\u2019s historic downtown into what it is today.<\/p>\n<p>Fort Collins almost always has something going on in Old Town Square, whether it be Santa\u2019s Workshop or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uchealth.org\/today\/top-outdoor-skating-spots-in-colorado\/\">ice skating<\/a> in the winter, or free Thursday night music in the summer.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_29524\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-29524\" style=\"width: 640px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-29524\" src=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101302\/tiny-old-town-ghost-signs-c.webp\" alt=\"Old town with a ghost sign on the side of one building.\" width=\"640\" height=\"401\" srcset=\"https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101302\/tiny-old-town-ghost-signs-c.webp 799w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101302\/tiny-old-town-ghost-signs-c-300x188.webp 300w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101302\/tiny-old-town-ghost-signs-c-768x482.webp 768w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101302\/tiny-old-town-ghost-signs-c-150x94.webp 150w, https:\/\/uchealth-wp-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/6\/2020\/03\/04101302\/tiny-old-town-ghost-signs-c-200x125.webp 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-29524\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">One of the free things to do in northern Colorado is to stroll Old Town in Fort Collins using a self-guided Historic Walking Tour guide created by the Poudre Landmarks Foundation. This &#8220;ghost sign&#8221; is among the tours. Photo: Grant Smith\/City of Fort Collins.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Check out the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/downtownfortcollins.com\/experience\/itineraries\/first-friday-art-walk\/\" data-loopstyle=\"linkonly\">First Friday Art Walk<\/a>\u00a0or take a self-guided\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/static1.squarespace.com\/static\/51a3ad7ce4b0cf20ca0a3afc\/t\/51a8ce0ee4b02f35a70d1f13\/1370017294885\/Historic+Walking+Tour.pdf\">Historic Walking Tour<\/a>, created by the Poudre Landmarks Foundation to learn more about the area. See ghost signs left from the 1950s or one of the earliest (1881) big-box stores. Learn about the Fort Collins trolley, which still runs in the summertime on Mountain Avenue between City Park and Old Town, or just stroll throughout the 22-block faces of downtown lit by an impressive display of low-energy, sustainable LED holiday lights from early November through Valentine\u2019s Day.<\/p>\n<p>Free two-hour parking is available on the street from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fcgov.com\/parking\/structures.php\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">several parking structures<\/a> in the area charge $1 per hour, with the first hour free. Parking in those structures is also free on Sundays and City holidays.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Are you looking for fun, free things to do in Colorado? Would you enjoy spending more time outdoors and less time shopping or on screens during every season of the year? Or do you need new ideas for cultural institutions you can visit? We&#8217;ve got you covered with fresh ideas for fun, free adventures in [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2164,"featured_media":86693,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_relevanssi_hide_post":"","_relevanssi_hide_content":"","_relevanssi_pin_for_all":"","_relevanssi_pin_keywords":"","_relevanssi_unpin_keywords":"","_relevanssi_related_keywords":"","_relevanssi_related_include_ids":"","_relevanssi_related_exclude_ids":"","_relevanssi_related_no_append":"","_relevanssi_related_not_related":"","_relevanssi_related_posts":"","_relevanssi_noindex_reason":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[9],"tags":[9210,2474,9187,4792],"class_list":["post-72689","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-live-colorado","tag-free-things-colorado","tag-hiking","tag-readysetco","tag-to-do-in-colorado"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.4 (Yoast SEO v27.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Fun, free things to do in Colorado - UCHealth Today<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Are you looking for fun, free things to do in Colorado? 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