
Colorado Avenue Main Street
Telluride's vibrant Colorado Avenue offers historic charm, unique shops, and breathtaking mountain views, all accessible via a free gondola.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Colorado Avenue Main Street
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Telluride's vibrant Colorado Avenue offers historic charm, unique shops, and breathtaking mountain views, all accessible via a free gondola.
"Stroll down the picturesque main street, lined with Victorian storefronts, unique boutiques, and art galleries."

🚶♀️ Walk Everywhere!
Colorado Ave is super walkable. Leave the car parked and explore the shops and restaurants on foot.
🚠 Ride the Free Gondola
It's a must-do for amazing views and easy access to Mountain Village.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Main Street Charm
Colorado Avenue
Stroll down the picturesque main street, lined with Victorian storefronts, unique boutiques, and art galleries. It's the vibrant core of Telluride.

Free Gondola Ride
Connects Telluride to Mountain Village
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the San Juan Mountains on this complimentary, scenic gondola ride.

Art Galleries & Boutiques
Along Colorado Avenue
Discover local art, handcrafted jewelry, and unique souvenirs in the many independent shops lining the avenue.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Walkability
Gondola Access is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk Everywhere!
Colorado Ave is super walkable. Leave the car parked and explore the shops and restaurants on foot.
🚠 Ride the Free Gondola
It's a must-do for amazing views and easy access to Mountain Village.
🎨 Browse Local Art
Discover unique pieces in the many galleries lining Main Street.
☕ Grab a Coffee
Enjoy a warm drink at one of the cozy cafes on Colorado Ave. Perfect for people-watching.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk Everywhere!
Colorado Ave is super walkable. Leave the car parked and explore the shops and restaurants on foot.
🚠 Ride the Free Gondola
It's a must-do for amazing views and easy access to Mountain Village.
🎨 Browse Local Art
Discover unique pieces in the many galleries lining Main Street.
☕ Grab a Coffee
Enjoy a warm drink at one of the cozy cafes on Colorado Ave. Perfect for people-watching.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning mountain scenery and the charming, walkable nature of Colorado Avenue. The free gondola is a highlight, offering incredible views and easy access. Some find parking challenging and note that prices can be high, typical of a popular ski resort town.
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Robyn Hawpe
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Colorado Avenue is the main street in downtown Telluride. If flying in, the closest major airport is Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ), about a 1.5-hour drive away. You can rent a car or arrange for a shuttle. Once in Telluride, Colorado Avenue is easily accessible on foot, and parking can be challenging, so walking is recommended.
Parking in downtown Telluride can be limited, especially during peak seasons. There are some street parking spots and a parking garage, but it's often easier to park at your accommodation and walk, or utilize the free gondola if coming from Mountain Village.
Yes, Telluride offers a free gondola system that connects the town to Mountain Village, providing excellent transit options. Within the town itself, Colorado Avenue is very walkable, and local shuttles may be available depending on the season.
The free gondola is the most scenic and convenient way to travel between Telluride and Mountain Village. It runs frequently and offers spectacular mountain views.
Yes, several shuttle services operate from Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ) and Telluride Regional Airport (TEX) to Telluride. Booking in advance is highly recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking along Colorado Avenue and exploring the shops and restaurants is free and open to the public.
There are no entrance fees to visit the town of Telluride itself. Enjoy the natural beauty and amenities freely.
Shop hours can vary, but most boutiques and galleries on Colorado Avenue are typically open from late morning to early evening. It's best to check individual business hours if you have specific places in mind.
Yes, the gondola connecting Telluride and Mountain Village is completely free to ride for everyone.
Colorado Avenue often hosts various events throughout the year, including festivals, holiday celebrations, and farmers' markets. Check local event calendars for current happenings.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Colorado Avenue features a diverse range of shops, including art galleries showcasing local talent, boutiques with clothing and accessories, souvenir shops, and outdoor gear stores.
Telluride's Main Street offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes and pubs to upscale restaurants. You can find everything from hearty American fare to international cuisine. Many offer outdoor seating with mountain views.
Absolutely! Many galleries and shops on Colorado Avenue specialize in local art, handmade jewelry, and unique Colorado-themed souvenirs that make for great keepsakes.
Several restaurants on Colorado Avenue are family-friendly, offering diverse menus that cater to different tastes. Look for places with casual atmospheres and a good selection of comfort food.
Many restaurants in Telluride are increasingly offering gluten-free and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus online or ask your server about dietary accommodations.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire street is picturesque! Capture the Victorian architecture, the backdrop of the surrounding mountains, and the vibrant street life. The gondola ride also offers incredible photo opportunities.
Golden hour, both in the early morning and late afternoon, provides beautiful soft light for photography. Midday can be bright, but the mountain scenery is always stunning.
The historic buildings themselves are landmarks. Look for unique architectural details, colorful storefronts, and the iconic mountain peaks framing the town. The gondola station also makes for a great shot.
Yes, absolutely! The gondola offers unparalleled panoramic views of Telluride and the surrounding mountains, making it a prime spot for photography.
Landscape photography is huge due to the stunning mountains. Street photography capturing the town's charm and plein air painting, as seen in some local art, are also popular.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Colorado Avenue
Beyond the shopping and dining, Colorado Avenue serves as a central hub for community events and activities. Whether it's a summer festival, a holiday market, or simply a bustling Saturday afternoon, the street is always alive with energy. The free gondola, which connects the town to Mountain Village, is easily accessible from near Colorado Avenue, providing a convenient and scenic way to explore further afield. This accessibility, combined with the street's inherent beauty, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Telluride.
Experiencing Telluride's Free Gondola
The gondola operates year-round, making it a valuable amenity regardless of the season. In the winter, it's a convenient way to access ski slopes and winter activities in Mountain Village. During the summer and fall, it provides access to hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and the vibrant atmosphere of the mountain resort. The absence of a fare makes it an accessible attraction for everyone, encouraging exploration and appreciation of Telluride's natural beauty. It's a testament to the town's commitment to providing unique, enjoyable, and practical experiences for all who visit.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit