Telluride

Ooh! That's what most people say when they enter this town wedged in a picturesque glacial canyon at the base of the dramatic San Juan Mountains. Once a remote mining area, today Telluride has become a destination (and home) for artists, skiers, celebrities, second homeowners, hippies and just about any other type you could imagine. But that's what makes it so special.

A restored Victorian main street is delightful for shopping, snacking and people-watching; you can sign up for a walking tour or guide yourself with a map available from the visitor's center. The Telluride Historical Museum is also a good resource for a quick town history lesson — from mining to ski-boom trivia.

Almost any outdoor adventure is at your fingertips here, although because of the rugged and steep terrain, many opt for popular four-wheel rides rather than mountain bike spins. One hair-raising route is Imogene Pass to Ouray where you'll pass the old Tomboy mine and fort at 13,114 feet in elevation. A hike every visitor should consider is straight out of town to 365-foot Bridal Veil Falls (Colorado's longest free-falling waterfall). Stream fishing is great along the Dolores or San Miguel rivers. Of course, world-class skiing is available up the road or via a free pedestrian gondola to the town of Mountain Village and ski area. The free gondola runs in the summer and fall for easy access up the mountain and to Mountain Village.

Telluride has been coined the City of Festivals, the title pretty much guarantees that you're likely to stumble on some happening any summer weekend. This mountain community's most famous fest is the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, which draws national acts to the outdoor amphitheater each June.