Things to do in Telluride, Besides Ski
Telluride isn’t just one of the best ski towns to visit this winter but has also been named one of the best small towns to visit in the U.S. two years in a row. This isn’t a surprise either, with easy access to some amazing skiing and plenty of shops and restaurants within its historical district. There’s always plenty to do when you’re off the slopes.
For those who haven’t been to Telluride it can be a little daunting trying to figure out what you’re going to do once the lifts stop running. Luckily we’ve got you covered with a list of some of our favorite things to do, off the mountain, when we visit Telluride in the winter.
Visit Mountain Village
Easily accessed by a free gondola that connects Mountain Village with the town of Telluride, this area is a must see to check out it’s European-style village that was founded in 1987. The views alone on the gondola are enough to just take a ride up and back.
Filled with shops and restaurants galore, take a stroll through the village or check out the nightlife by getting a few tasters at the Telluride Distilling Company Tasting Room located in the Conference Center.
Telluride Historical Museum
Looking to learn a little history during your vacation? Then head on over to the Telluride Historical Museum. Located in the old hospital building, this museum recounts the history of Telluride from the days of gold mining all the way up to the opening of Telluride Ski Resort.
You’ll also be able to learn about the area’s relationship with the Ute Native American tribe and Otto Mears, known as “The Pathfinder of the San Juans.”
Historical Walking Tour
If you’re still trying to get your history fix after visiting the museum, you can book a historic walking tour that brings you around the town of Telluride. The guides, along with placards outside multiple Victorian style homes, will help fill you in on the history of Telluride and how this town went from a mining community to the world renown ski resort it’s known for today.
Telluride Art District
This area in Telluride is one of the first certified creative districts in the state of Colorado. It has helped Telluride build a name for itself as a hotspot for creative expression that artists flock to. You can check out an assortment of different art galleries and exhibits all a short walk away from each other.
Ice Skating
No ski town is complete without an ice rink and Telluride is no different. Telluride Town Park has both an indoor and outdoor rink that has fantastic views of the San Juan Mountains that surround it.
Mountain Village also offers an ice rink at The Hotel Madeline between December and March. There’s a skate rental shop right next to the rink and it also offers a free skate hour between 12 and 1 PM every day.
Telluride Nugget Theater
This old-timing local theater was built within a 19-century bank building and plays an assortment of modern movies. If you’re looking to catch a break and rest those legs a little bit before a big day of skiing then walking over to this theater for a flick is a great late night idea.
