Known as the “Gateway to the Great Sand Dunes,” Alamosa serves as the commercial hub for the San Luis Valley of Colorado. Although it’s seemingly in the middle of nowhere, Alamosa features plenty of unique natural attractions and a rich history.

History:

Alamosa’s first inhabitants were the Clovis and Folsom, Native American cultures that hunted and gathered in the area 11,000 years ago, according to Visit Alamosa. Spain claimed the area in the 1500s, establishing land grants to attract settlers. The area’s first permanent settlements came in the 1850s.

Discovery of gold and silver in 1870 fueled a mining rush into the San Luis Valley. A narrow-gauge train brought settlers and their belongings to a protected bend in the Rio Grande, and Alamosa was founded in 1878.

Alamosa became the center of the San Luis Valley when more railroads were established in the area. Today, Alamosa has a population of around 16,000 and features stunning mountain views, the Rio Grande River and much more.

Outdoor recreation:

Great Sand Dunes National Park — these are the tallest dunes in North America and offer great opportunities to hike and sled on dunes up to 750 feet tall.

Zapata Falls — the hike to this 25-foot waterfall tucked inside a cave is only 0.8 miles.

Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge — located along the Rio Grande, this refuge is a haven for migratory birds and other wildlife.

Sand Dunes Recreation — cool off in these geothermal mineral waters located about 20 miles from Alamosa.

Culture:

San Luis Valley History Museum — check out pioneer, agricultural and indigenous artifacts at this museum.

Adams State University Galleries — including the Cloyde Snook Gallery that hosts nationally known artists and Luther Bean Museum.

Fort Garland Museum & Cultural Center — visitors can explore what life was like in a nineteenth-century military fort by touring five of Fort Garland’s original adobe buildings.

UFO Watchtower — founded in 2000, this observation platform was created as a “welcoming, judgment-free safe haven” for skywatchers.

Dining:

The Friar’s Fork & Sanctuary — located in a former church, this restaurant serves Italian/Mediterranean Cuisine.

Calvillo’s Mexican Restaurant — offers a variety of Mexican dishes.

Nino’s Del Sol — another great Mexican restaurant.

The Rubi Slipper LLC — this highly rated restaurant serves up American cuisine.

Lodging:

Best Western Alamosa Inn — conveniently located near many things to do in Alamosa.

Comfort Inn & Suites Alamosa — located near Adams State University.

Fairfield Inn & Suites Alamosa — another conveniently located option.

Getting there:

According to Google Maps, it takes about four hours to drive from Denver to Alamosa.

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