This by far without a doubt is the most popular spot in Telluride. The original Victorian downtown located along the W Colorado Avenue, is the historic district of Telluride. This area expands about 12 blocks in length and eight blocks wide. The downtown became a National Historic Landmark in 1961, and still today boasts old-world Victorian charm. From shopping to cafes to restaurants, this is where many visitors spend much of their time roaming the streets in search of a souvenir or a bite to eat.
For those who love books and tea, be sure to stop at the Between the Covers Bookstore + Espresso. The back of the shop features a cafe along with plenty of hand-crafted Colorado / west coast teas. If you're looking to try some local brews and maybe wash it down with a pizza, stop at the Hi-Pie Pizzeria and Taproom. This area contains some near 300 architectural buildings that are indicative of the original times, so be sure to set aside a couple of. hours exploring and dining in this area.
Art galleries are an important aspect of any mountain town. Telluride features 19 galleries all hoping to attract art buyers since the town is chocked full of billionaires and rich folks that settled on this once-hippie-dominated enclave. Click here for a list of galleries to explore which place is for you. From modern art to mountain art, there is a gallery for every type of art enthusiast.
Be sure to check websites before visiting the local businesses. COVID as well as a lack of available rent for mountain town employees have caused many businesses to close during this the last two years.
For an incredible Birdseye view of Telluride and the Mountain Village, be sure to take the free 13-minute gondola ride, lifting riders up toward 10,500 feet in elevation. The gondola has a 1,750 foot change in elevation and runs daily from 6:30 am to midnight.
The three main stations include:
- Station Telluride (Oak Street) – access in Telluride.
- Station St. Sophia (mid-mountain stop) – access to Allred’s Restaurant & Bar, The Ridge Club and ski resort trails and runs.
- Station Mountain Village – access in Mountain Village.
- Just across from Station Mountain Village, a shorter gondola stretch connects to Station Village Parking, where the free parking garage, Town Hall and the Mountain Market are located.
For what seems like a walk through a Swiss village, is actually a newer space of the Telluride community. Constructed in 1987, Mountain Village sits at nearly ten thousand feet in elevation within the 2,000 acres of the aspen forest, which is the gateway to the Uncompahgre National Forest. Mountain Village features a variety of luxury shopping and fine dining. Gondola plaza is the gateway to many unique green spaces, including an outdoor rock climbing wall.
Visit the Telluride Brewing Company for a taste of the local brew scene. For a truly unique Telluride experience, dine in one of the The Cabins, which are gondolas located in the main square during any time of the year. The Telluride Distilling Company Tasting Room is a cute and quaint vintage-chic bar that is known for its fresh housemade mixers and concoctions.
Telluride Town Park
For a piece of nature that is not located far from town, visit this 36-acre lush park that is home to many seasonal music festivals and sporting events. It's located at the end of East Colorado Avenue, and is a a great green space to find the locals.
What is your favorite way to spend an afternoon in Downtown Telluride? Let's Connect!