14 Romantic Colorado Places to Steal a Kiss

1. Over a MICHELIN-Starred Meal

Colorado has no shortage of amazing restaurants to inspire warm feelings. In fact, the state boasts numerous MICHELIN-rated and -recommended restaurants, including five with single MICHELIN stars. At Chef Duncan Holmes' Beckon in Denver, you'll be treated to eight seasonally curated courses throughout your experience; expect delights along the lines of venison paired with earthy morels and sweet figs. In Aspen, choose your own five-course culinary adventure at Bosq, or let Chef Barclay Dodge tantalize you with nine courses starring the likes of succulent lobster grilled over aromatic juniper branches. Make your way to Boulder's Frasca Food and Wine for Executive Chef Ian Palazzola's upscale Northern Italian cuisine, such as tagliolini pasta with indulgent duck ragù and foie gras. Denver's BRUTØ and The Wolf's Tailor also lay claim to MICHELIN stars, while many other restaurants are honored with designations like Bib Gourmand and the sustainability-focused Green Star.

2. On the Royal Gorge Bridge

The Royal Gorge Bridge near Cañon City is America’s highest suspension bridge, hanging 1,250 feet above the raging Arkansas River. Cling to one another as you walk (or drive) across the bridge to enjoy the stunning views and sneak a kiss right in the middle. Find other things to see and do at the Royal Gorge

3. Soaking in a Hot Spring

What could be more romantic than soaking in hot springs while a gentle snow falls around you? Choose a place that offers private tubs for optimum romance. The historic Wiesbaden Hot Springs near Ouray, the Dunton Hot Springs in Dolores and Indian Springs Resort in Idaho Springs make perfect secluded getaways. Find more Colorado hot springs

4. In Loveland (of course)

Located along the north Front Range near Fort Collins, Loveland (the town, not the ski hill) is known as Colorado’s “Sweetheart City.” Aside from its popular volunteer-powered Valentine Re-mailing Program, the city is known for its thriving local art scene and events.

5. On the “One Mile” Step in Front of the Colorado State Capitol

While sightseeing in Denver, be sure to note your elevation: One of the steps in front of the Colorado State Capitol building is marked with a plaque signifying that it is exactly 5,280 feet, or one mile, above sea level. A perfect opportunity to snag a memorable smooch in the Mile High City — “mile-high club” jokes totally optional. More things to do in Denver

6. On a Scenic & Historic Train

Colorado is known for its historic railroads, and trains are known for romance. Book a wine dinner trip on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad in one of their scenic Vista Dome cars. Or, make a day trip of the Cumbres & Toltec railroad in southern Colorado, which winds its way through landscapes unreachable by any other motorized transport.

7. At a B&B

No matter where you want to go in Colorado, you’re sure to find a bed-and-breakfast nearby. Many bed-and-breakfasts offer romantic amenities like in-room hot tubs or fireplaces to complete your stay. Try the Cliff House at Pikes Peak, outside Colorado Springs, whose long list of past accolades include being featured in Travel + Leisure’s Top 100 Hotels in the World and True West Magazine's Best Preservation of a Historic Western Building.

8. Over a Glass of Colorado Wine

Book a private wine tasting at one of Colorado’s wineries for an educational and delicious event you’ll both remember. Although the majority of Colorado’s vineyards are located on the Western Slope in and around Grand Junction and Palisade, wineries can be found all over the state, including in Denver, Boulder and Cañon City.

9. By the Fire

One of the hottest (pardon the pun) trends in Colorado hotels is an outdoor fire pit to cozy up to when the weather is frosty. From big hotels, like the Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch in Beaver Creek to small bed-and-breakfasts, rooms with a roaring fire offer choice cuddling — don’t forget the s’mores. Read Only-in-Colorado Places to Stay

10. In Formal Wear

For many ladies and gents, there’s just something about formal attire that gets the heartstrings stirring. Book a night out in Denver with Opera Colorado, the Colorado Symphony or the Colorado Ballet for an excuse to dust off the dinner jackets and ball gowns.

11. In the Dark

Cave of the Winds, outside Colorado Springs, offers lantern tours that replicate the flickering flames early explorers used to light their way. Just make sure your sweetie isn’t too afraid of the dark!

12. In a One-Horse Open Sleigh

Where there’s snow, you’ll find sleigh rides in Colorado. Search for operators near you and opt for all the extras, like warm beverages for the trip.

13. On Top of the World

Whether you ski or not, Colorado ski resorts can be some of the most romantic places in the world: Imagine a winter wonderland viewed from a peak that seems to touch the sky. Ride the lifts to the highest peaks, or just snuggle by the fire in the lodge.

14. On a Scenic Overlook

Take your better half sightseeing in a whole different way by following one of Colorado’s scenic byway driving tours. Any of these routes will provide you with ample photo opportunities, and every time you pull over to admire the view, you can take a moment to admire each other, too.

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