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The meandering Rio Grande River snakes through a vast valley ringed by dramatic mountains and laden with hidden lakes, waterfalls and cool summertime temperatures. Explore the small towns and attractions tucked away in this intriguing area.

3 Days in the San Luis Valley & Great Sand Dunes

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Donate to the <a href="https://www.rightslv.org/">Rio Grande Headwaters Land Trust</a> who believes that land and water conservation contribute to sustaining the vitality of this agricultural heritage and economy, the exceptional wildlife habitat, the scenic beauty and the area's rural quality of life.

How to Give Back to These Special Places

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Because the dunes and surrounding mountains are designated wilderness, this is a great place to enjoy unspoiled natural beauty in a variety of ways. Whether you play in Medano Creek, build a sand castle, slide down the dunes, go birdwatching in wetlands or ascend a 13,000-foot peak, you will discover plenty of kinds of outdoor recreation for all ages.

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

The Oasis Restaurant and Store, located at the main park entrance, is the only restaurant within 25 miles of Great Sand Dunes National Park.

Great Sand Dunes Oasis

Cut from the rock face by glaciers and scoured by millennia of rushing water, cold water crashes through a 30 ft. cleft in the rock walls. The falls are a half-mile hike from the parking area, where mountain bike and wilderness hiking trails can also be accessed.

Zapata Falls Recreation Area

Offers the finest in craft brews and fine food in an inviting atmosphere.

San Luis Valley Brewing

A family friendly oasis in the San Luis Valley.  Large family pool maintained at 98 degrees, 25-person hot tub, 2 on-site restaurants,  gift shop, The Greenhouse, an adults-only tropical escape with 4 pools, sauna, and on-site bar. RV/Tent Camping &amp; Cabin Rentals.

Sand Dunes Recreation

Beautiful newly remodeled hotel with many amenities.

Best Western Alamosa Inn

Campus Cafe is the local favorite. American food, amazing breakfasts, you have to try the cinnnamon roll! Great lunch menu too.

Campus Cafe

<a href="https://www.historycolorado.org/location/fort-garland"></a> 
Named a finalist for the 2023 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, Fort Garland Museum &amp; Cultural Center allows visitors to explore life in a 19th century military fort by walking the parade grounds and touring original adobe buildings. The museum’s creative exhibitions include the newly opened <a href="https://www.historycolorado.org/exhibit/buffalo-soldiers-revision">buffalo soldiers: reVision</a>, which disrupts the common narratives of manifest destiny and settlement of the American West through a more visual interpretation of the history and impact of the all Black Army regiments that were established in 1866 following the Civil War. The exhibition was created in collaboration with eight independent artists from around the country, whose creations range from prints layering historical photos and documents with contemporary drawings, to poetry which evokes the emotional toil of this part of our shared history.
Fort Garland is located near the Great Sand Dunes National Park, a natural wonder unlike any other in the United States, and makes for a great road trip from other History Colorado sites including <a href="https://www.historycolorado.org/pikes-stockade">Pike’s Stockade</a>.

Fort Garland Museum & Cultural Center

Located in the heart of historic Fort Garland, our family-owned restaurant is known for fine dining, delicious home-style cooking, and comfy rustic hospitality.

All-Gon Pizza

Built as an act of faith and love for the parishioners of the Sangre de Cristo Parish. Visitors can climb the half-mile trail to view fifteen bronze sculptures of Christ's passion and resurrection and experience the magnificent adobe Capilla at the top of the mesa.

Shrine of the Stations of the Cross

A hidden gem here in Alamosa, Mi Taquito is directly behind Calvillo's Restaurant off of Main Street. It's a quaint spot that's serving up authentic Mexican dish's like flautas, tacos, and burritos. They're known for their bold, fresh flavors, and fast friendly service.

Mi Taquito

In the heart of the arid San Luis Valley lies a birdwatchers paradise. Lush wetlands provide year-round habitat for songbirds, water birds, coyotes, deer and other wildlife. In March and September, twenty thousand Sandhill Cranes migrate through the valley.

Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge

Known for amazing breakfast burritos and other delights.

Don Tomas Bakery

Penitente Canyon is the site of rich geological and cultural history. Part of the La Garita Caldera, the unusual rock formations and hoodoos in the canyon have become a premier rock climbing destination.

Penitente Canyon Recreation Area, BLM

One of Colorado's smallest microbreweries that's been in business for over 15 years. Located in the heart of Del Norte, Colorado, we that utilizes local ingredients in all beers and foods at the restaurant. 100% Solar Powered on site! Come taste the San Luis Valley.

Three Barrel Brewing Company

See the cultural and natural history of the San Luis Valley. Home to the Del Norte Visitors' Center.

Rio Grande County Museum and Cultural Center

We are known for our great food, fast service and friendly folks! Come check our our giant cinnamon rolls for breakfast, daily specials or join us for the big game. We hope to see you soon!

Boogie's Restaurant

Bistro BARbara is a warm, inviting bar where you can relax with old friends and make new ones. We serve handcrafted cocktails and a locally driven menu seven days a week.

Bistro BARbara at the Windsor Hotel

Nestled at the base of the picturesque San Juan Mountains, Del Norte, Colorado has a rich history from the gold and silver boom town days of the 1800's.  The Windsor Hotel established in 1874 is a landmark luxury hotel in the midst of hometown culture. The ambiance of Colorado western history comes alive as you experience our unique western fine dining cuisine. Take a step back in time as you enjoy your stay in our hotel now restored to the former glory days with the modern conveniences of today.  Come be a part of our family...your home away from home.