Alamosa, founded in 1878, functions at the county seat of Alamosa County, Colorado. It is a thriving commercial center of the stunning San Luis Valley in Colorado.
Alamosa is renowned for being home to the tallest sand dunes in North America. It became a key railway center following its establishment by Denver and Rio Grande.
In addition, the Denver and Rio Grande Railway Company had constructed a facility in Alamosa to build, repair, and distribute trains and train components across the company.
Similarly, the railway company operated its narrow-gauge service base within this town, catering to its customers in southwest Colorado and northern New Mexico.
This stunning town in Colorado is an energetic tourist destination. It features numerous renowned attractions, for example, the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, the Colorado Gators Reptile Park, and others.
Here are the best things to do in Alamosa, CO.
Things to Do in Alamosa, CO
1. San Luis Valley Brewing Company
Beer enthusiasts should visit the San Luis Valley Brewing Company within the renovated San Juan Building in downtown Alamosa.
Visitors will have the chance to sample eight homemade beers and two sodas, which can be complemented with a variety of fresh and tasty food.
However, you can enjoy a tour of the entire place or relish the atmosphere in the dining room, which has beautiful local artwork on its brick and metal walls.
In addition, the brewery recycles its bottles, so ensure to bring back your empty bottles. San Luis Valley Brewing Company is a family-operated brewery, and since 2005, it has been offering revitalizing beers to Alamosa.
Address: 631 Main St, Alamosa, CO 81101, United States
2. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
When you are in Alamosa, be sure to visit the Great Sand Dunes National Park located within the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Inside the Park, you can find the tallest dunes in North America.
Great Sand Dunes National Park spans 10,000 acres and has dunes that are 750 feet high, providing an idyllic environment for outdoor activities, such as hiking, sandboarding, camping, sand-sledding, and picnicking.
In addition, the Park is an excellent site for nighttime stargazing. Within the Park, you can find cottonwood groves, lush forests, tundra, and mountains.
The Park’s highest peak is 13,604 feet above sea level. In addition, the campgrounds are located on high terrains, with the loftiest point at about 8,200 feet.
The preserve is available for visitations all year round. Visitors at the Great Dunes are shown a brief video before they begin their adventure in the dunes.
When it’s evening you can retreat to your campsite. This destination is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Alamosa, CO.
Address: Alamosa, Colorado, United States
3. Blessed Brews Coffee Shop
Before you begin your adventure in Alamosa, visit the Blessed Brews Coffee Shop to enjoy a delicious cup of hot coffee.
On the contrary, you can relax by taking a break with family or a friend while enjoying snacks and frappes. The coffee shop is only open during morning and noon hours.
The coffee shop uses freshly roasted direct-trade coffee beans to provide guests with the best coffee drinks, including smoothies and lattes.
Make sure to try out their specialty blends and complement them with her freshly baked foods, including cookies, muffins, sticky buns, panini, and homemade pies.
Address: 721 Main St, Alamosa, CO 81101, United States
4. San Luis Valley Museum
San Luis Valley Museum
Learn about local history by visiting the San Luis Valley Museum. If you’re a history enthusiast, visiting this Museum should be on your list of what to do in Alamosa, CO.
Inside the Museum, you will find several exhibits that showcase the different arts and cultural heritage of the San Luis Valley region.
For example, there are genuine costumes whose history traces back to the 1860s, worn by frontiersman Tom Tobin.
You can also find numerous Native American artifacts and clothes dating back to the 1st century. A particular room in the Museum was redesigned to have the typical resemblance of a historic trading station.
The Museum has remnants of exotic insects and arrowheads. It also features a memorial wall that pays tribute to local men who died during WWI and WWII.
Address: 401 Hunt Ave #2658, Alamosa, CO 81101, United States
5. Rio Grande Farm Park
If you are into farming, visit the Rio Grande Farm Park while vacationing in Alamosa. It is a 38-acre estate next to the Rio Grande with fertile soil for growing various crops, including beans, squash, and more.
Alamosa locals also find it delightful to visit the Rio Grande Farm Pars due to its hiking trails that directly guide them back to the town.
When you visit, you can also explore the Native plants and animals inhabiting the river wetlands. You also get to plant crops if you are anxious to know where your food originates.
The Rio Grande Farm Park currently has a trail system that is six miles long and shares 16 acres of farmland for local farming. In addition, this Farm Park features a kiddie’s playground, a gathering site for cultural events, and a grove of fruit trees.
Address: 6935 CO-17, Alamosa, CO 81101, United States
6. Firedworks Gallery
If you plan on getting something special for a loved one or friend at home while vacationing, visiting the Fireworks Gallery should be on your checklist of top things to do in Alamosa, CO.
The Firedworks Gallery was established in 1979 with the sole aim of showcasing the studio’s pottery.
After six years, the gallery decided to expand. It also began selling artistic pieces from different artists, which led them to be recognized as a gallery.
Throughout the years, the gallery’s space has grown to cover about 4,000 square feet. They specialize in the sales and display of vibrant and beautiful artwork.
Apart from exhibiting artworks, this gallery features a framing shop and showcases over 2,000 styles. For whichever piece you buy, you can have it framed before leaving.
Address: 608 Main St, Alamosa, CO 81101, United States
7. Hiking up Zapata Falls
Hiking up the Zapata Falls is one of the fun things to do in Alamosa, CO. If you visit this place, bring a camera to capture the magnificent views of the San Luis Valley and the Great Sand Dunes at the top of Zapata Falls.
The parking area is where you begin your escapade of reaching the summit. You have to walk about four miles of biking or hiking trails at the base of the falls.
Alternatively, you can use the Forest Service to make your way to the forests and mountains summit. You can follow the South Zapata Creek until you arrive at the South Zapata Lake.
You can take shots of several old cabins you will see on your way. During the winter season, Zapata Falls passes through an enchanting transitional scheme cascading waterfalls into an ice sculpture.
Bring a jacket with you regardless of whether you will visit during summer, as the terrain is always cold.
Address: Alamosa, Colorado, United States
8. Luther E. Bean Museum
Visit the Adams State University in Alamosa to explore the Luther E. Bean Museum, where you can learn about the outstanding works of Native American Pottery.
The works inside the Museum encompass works by Santo Domingo Pueblos and Maria “Marie ” Martinez.
The Luther E. Bean Museum also showcases weaving from Navajo and Rio Grande Valley, with a particular weaving done by Eppie Archuleta.
Luther E. Bean Museum houses an assortment of antique furniture, retablos, sandstone figurines, Havelin China, and ivory figurines. Many of the Museum’s artifacts were from donations from Mr. and Mrs. Woodard or collections from around the globe.
Furthermore, the Museum houses items related to Willian H. Billy. You will have an enlightening experience at this Museum.
Address: 208 Edgemont Blvd #256, Alamosa, CO 81101, United States
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9. Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge
The Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge encompasses 11,169 acres of desert and wetlands. It is an abode to diverse wildlife species in San Luis Valley. The Refuge is one of the best places to visit in Alamosa, CO.
Embark on a journey to the Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge and test your endurance by going on an extensive hike.
The Refuge sits on a lofty alpine basin, 7,800 feet above sea level, spanning more than 100 miles from the north to south region and 50 miles from east to west.
From within a distance, you can see the magnificent Rockies. In the east direction, you will find the summits of the Sangre de Cristo, whereas in the west sits the San Juan Mountains.
Stop at the Bluff Overlook to get better views of the Park’s animals. For example, when the snow melts, you will see migratory birds traversing the area. There is also local wildlife, such as rabbits, mules, deer, elk, coyotes, and others, to see in the Refuge all year round.
Address: 9383 El Rancho Ln, Alamosa, CO 81101, United States
10. Society Hall
The Society Hall is recognized as the foremost venue in the town that holds live music concerts. It is famous for its outstanding acoustics and cozy ambiance. Ensure to attend any live music shows during your visit to Alamosa.
The Society Hall was established in 1922 and originally served as a church for the Christian Science Society. It was later transformed into a concert venue by a community of local musicians. Additionally, the building came with its stage and over 200 chairs.
The interior features of this historic building include a central aisle that leads to the stage. Moreover, the floor is sloped, which allows spectators to view the stage from the rear.
The community maintained the name for this building, “Society Hall,” to honor its history. Currently, the Society Hall holds a variety of shows ranging from comedy specials to concerts, fundraisers, and puppet shows.
Address: 400 Ross Ave, Alamosa, CO 81101, United States
11. Colorado Gator Farm
Apart from the sandy landscapes, Alamosa houses different types of reptiles for interested tourists. To see these reptiles, visit the Colorado Gator Farm, located at the center of the desert.
The farm owners began tilapia farming in 1977, using the geothermal water available in the valley. Nevertheless, an issue quickly showcased itself.
Many fish on the farm died, and to get rid of them and alleviate their problem, the owners introduced 100 baby alligators.
The baby alligators flourished in the warm waters and also captured the interests of the curious locals. Then, in 1990, the farm owners changed their plans and established the Gator Farm. Although they still carry pit tilapia farming.
Throughout the years, the farm has been home to various exotic wildlife. They adopted illegal, exploited, and undesired reptiles from around the globe. Apart from the alligators, you will see iguanas, giant tortoises, different types of snakes, and giant turtles.
Address: 9162 Ln 9 N, Mosca, CO 81146, United States
12. Sand Dunes Recreation
One exciting thing about vacationing in Alamosa is that it allows you to explore nearby attractions. An example is the Sand Dunes Recreation in Hooper, just 22 minutes from Alamosa, CO.
The Sand Dunes Recreation is a hot spring that is open throughout the year. It features the finest snack bar in Colorado, known as the Mile Deep Grille.
In the early 1930s, oil drillers were persistent in exploring this region for black gold. In the course of their activity, they found geothermal water close to Hooper.
Therefore, the explorers decided to transform it into a thermal spring. Sand Dunes Recreation channels the water from the hot spring into a sizable 150,000-gallon pool maintained at 118 degrees Fahrenheit.
There is a family pool of spring water with temperatures ranging from 98 to 102 degrees, contingent on the season. Sand Dunes Recreation also features a therapy pool that can house 24 people with temperatures of 108 to 109 degrees.
Address: 1991 Co Rd 63, Hooper, CO 81136, United States
13. Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
Delve into the railroad history by visiting Alamosa’s Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad. This adventure allows you to explore this town via a vintage steam-powered train.
It might interest you to know that the history of Alamosa is profoundly connected with the development of trains in the country.
The old-fashioned locomotive operates through a steam engine that is fueled by coal. The train allows you to experience how train travel was in the past.
You can peep through the window to view the changing scenery along the border of New Mexico and Colorado. Furthermore, these uncommon landscapes can be seen only when the train travels on its distinctive route.
Passengers can choose from the different carriage options available in the locomotive, ranging from the Victorian Parlor Car and Deluxe Car to the budget-friendly Coach Car.
Address: 5234 US Hwy 285, Antonito, CO 81120, United States
14. Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge
The Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge is another fascinating place of interest for any traveler. It is a home for the state’s most incredible birds.
The National Wildlife Refuge is located in Monte Vista, about 23 minutes from Alamosa, CO. It spans a distance of 50 miles from east to west and about 100 miles from North to South direction.
Additionally, the refuge sits on an elevated area, stretching 7,800 feet above sea level. To explore the Refuge, you can choose to go hunting, but visitors are to obey all the local, state, and federal regulations about hunting.
Apart from hunting, you can tour the place via its four-mile-long picturesque drive. You will find different types of animals in the refuge, such as sandhill cranes, yellow-headed blackbirds, and migratory waterfowl.
Address: Monte Vista, CO 81144, United States
15. Cattails Golf Course
For golf enthusiasts, one of the best things to do in Alamosa, CO, is to pay a visit to the Cattails Golf Course to play some rounds of exciting golf.
The golf course is decorated with cottonwood trees and beautiful wetlands spread throughout. Cattails Golf Course is located simply north of the famous Rio Grande River and has all-round views of every mountain.
You can bring a camera with you to take snaps of the beautiful views with wildlife spread in every corner. The course is a property of the city, and it features a clubhouse that is in perfect condition.
Cattails Golf Course is an 18-hole golf course ideal for every skill level type of golfer. It features a driving range and offers private golf sessions.
Address: 500 Cottonwood Dr, Alamosa, CO 81101, United States
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16. Fort Garland Museum
Fort Garland Museum
If you are fascinated by military history, a must-see during your vacation is the Fort Garland Museum, located in Fort Garland, about 27 minutes from Alamosa.
The United States Army constructed the fort in 1858 to protect dwellers of that area from invasions by the Native Americans.
A prominent person by the name of Kit Carson commanded the fort. Currently, the Museum houses various items and memorabilia that depict his outstanding career and family life.
When you visit, take your time to tour the fortress parade sites and its enduring adobe buildings. You will also see exhibits connected to the famous Buffalo Soldiers.
Address: 29477 CO-159, Fort Garland, CO 81133, United States
17. UFO Watchtower
UFO Watchtower
The UFO Watchtower is possibly the most exceptional roadside attraction in Colorado, welcoming both alien seekers and interested individuals and allowing them to witness a UFO or an alien firsthand.
Presumably, this destination has played host to many UFO sightings over time, possibly due to the expansive and unobstructed view of the night sky in Alamosa.
The Great Sand Dunes National Park is located nearby and holds the renowned title of an International Dark Sky Park due to its excellent stargazing observation point.
Address: CO-17, Center, CO 81125, United States
18. Colorado Welcome Center
Colorado Welcome Center
As a tourist, visiting Colorado Welcome Center should be on your itinerary of the top things to do in Alamosa, CO. There are about ten Welcome Centers at essential entry points in different parts of the state.
These Welcome Centers serve as an idyllic venue for tourists in Colorado to get all the information they need, and they are managed by a team of excellent staff and volunteers who are always available to help.
The Welcome Center in Alamosa is specifically distinctive since it is situated in the historic Train Depot in Alamosa. It provides information for visitors about nearby and statewide attractions, including SUP rentals, driving maps, and others.
Stop by the Welcome Center anytime to interact with any of their local experts about anything you need to know or see in the San Luis Valley. The staff are knowledgeable about the trails and excellent locations in this region.
Address: 610 State Ave, Alamosa, CO 81101, United States
19. The Wet Paintbrush
Another interesting place you should visit while exploring the town is the Wet Paintbrush, the first Sip and Paint Art Studio in San Luis Valley.
The Wet Paintbrush offers an entertaining and calm ambiance for guests to enjoy painting and sipping a delectable wine or beer.
This sip-and-paint art studio allows guests to be artistically creative by crafting their masterpieces while sipping their favorite liquor.
However, if you do not know about painting or drawing, professionals will guide you and show you some simple techniques to try. Guests are given all the necessary materials, and their painting classes are done in groups.
Address: 1307 Main St Suite A, Alamosa, CO 81101-2331, United States
20. Calvillo’s Mexican Restaurant
Calvillo’s mexican restaurant & bar
If you are seeking a place to eat delicious Mexican dishes when vacationing in Alamosa, then the right place to visit is Calvillo’s Mexican Restaurant.
This restaurant is famous for its signature buffet, comprising numerous fresh items, such as tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas, and desserts.
Their foods, from their menu or buffet, are prepared using well-known recipes from different parts of Mexico, including culinary techniques inherited through families.
Address: 400 Main St, Alamosa, CO 81101, United States
21. Blanca Vista Park
Blanca Vista Park is surrounded by the Rio Grande River and the Colorado State Highway 17, providing spectacular vistas of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the Great Sand Dunes National Park via numerous delightful loop trails.
The Park features an almost 25-acre pond, where people can observe different species of wildlife, like fox and deer, with numerous bird species of the San Luis Valley. It also has two enclosed picnic sites.
If you are searching for a place to have a relaxing walk and enjoy nature’s fresh air, then this Park might be your best bet.
Address: 6455 N River Rd, Alamosa, CO 81101-9620, United States
22. Splashland Hot Springs
Splashland Hot Springs features an outdoor geothermal swimming pool that has existed since 1955. It is a significant part of this town’s history.
The swimming pool was recently renovated and updated with a concession stand and is an ideal place to spend a summer afternoon with the entire family.
Splashland is situated just one mile north of Alamosa on Highway 17 and operates at certain seasons of the year.
Throughout the year, water flows into the pool at 102 degrees Fahrenheit, sustaining an average pool-wide temperature of 88 to 96 degrees Fahrenheit.
In addition, this swimming pool features a diving board, lap lanes, and three water slides. They also hold water aerobics sessions, swimming classes, parent-tot lessons, and water therapy. Swimming here is undoubtedly one of the fun things to do in Alamosa, CO.
Address: 5895 CO-17, Alamosa, CO 81101, United States
23. Kristi Mountain Sports
Kristi Mountain Sports is a retail store that caters to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts. It provides various types of outdoor gear for sports powered by human effort and gravity, which are common in San Luis Valley.
They offer sandboard and sand sled rentals for visitors who want to glide down the lofty Great Sand Dunes National Park, which is 40 minutes away from the store.
Kristi Mountain Sport is a go-to store to get all the information you need on hiking trails, mountain-biking trails, local 14er beta, and every crucial outdoor equipment you may need for your adventure.
Address: 3223 Main St, Alamosa, CO 81101, United States
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Plan Your Trip to Alamosa
There are numerous beautiful attractions to explore in Alamosa, CO. If you are up for some exciting adventure, plan to have your next vacation in this gorgeous town.
Our carefully curated list of what to do in Alamosa, CO, will help you make the best of your trip.