Mancos ColoradoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Mancos, Colorado.
1. Mesa Verde National Park
ANCIENT CLIFF DWELLINGS
Mesa Verde National Park is an expansive park featuring unique cliff dwellings built by ancient Anasazi civilizations. Visitors can take the scenic loop throughout the park or go on a hike to get up close and personal with these historic cities built into the cliffs. The park offers 267 camping sites that are open from mid-April to mid-October, making it a perfect destination for overnight explorers.
2. Mancos State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Mancos State Park is an isolated park bordering the southwest corner of the San Juan Forest, offering a peaceful retreat in nature. The park features boating, camping, and fishing in the summer, while ice fishing becomes popular during winter months. Visitors can choose from 32 campsites across two campgrounds or rent one of two yurts available year-round.
3. Fenceline Cider
LOCAL CRAFT CIDER
Fenceline Cider is a winery/cidery located in the heart of Mancos, offering refreshing craft ciders made from locally harvested apples. Visitors can enjoy their drinks along the scenic Mancos River while sampling gourmet snacks. Food trucks are available on Fridays and Saturdays, enhancing the experience with delicious meal options.
4. Dave Sipe's Folk Art
UNIQUE LOCAL ART
Dave Sipe's Folk Art ranks as the top attraction in Mancos according to visitor ratings. This art gallery showcases distinctive folk art creations that capture the spirit of the region. Visitors can explore the gallery and appreciate the artistic expression that reflects local culture and heritage.
5. Mancos Valley Overlook
SCENIC VALLEY VIEWS
Mancos Valley Overlook offers breathtaking panoramic views of the picturesque Mancos Valley. Visitors come to enjoy the natural beauty and photograph the stunning landscape. In the later afternoon, food trucks often set up at this location, allowing visitors to enjoy delicious meals while taking in the magnificent scenery.
6. Kilgore American Indian Art
NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE
Kilgore American Indian Art houses a collection of vintage and antique American Indian art and jewelry built upon the roots of a Navajo reservation trading post. The gallery offers visitors an opportunity to explore authentic Native American artistic traditions and craftsmanship. The collection reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region's indigenous peoples.
7. Majestic Dude Ranch
CLASSIC WESTERN EXPERIENCE
Majestic Dude Ranch is a family-owned and oriented guest ranch nestled high in the pristine wilderness of the San Juan Mountains. Operating since 1956 (formerly as Lake Mancos Ranch), the ranch offers an authentic Western experience just 35 minutes from Durango. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding, hiking, and other outdoor activities in a stunning mountain setting.
8. Mancos Creative District
VIBRANT ARTS COMMUNITY
The Mancos Creative District is facilitated by a vibrant community of more than 150 artists, making it a cultural hub in southwestern Colorado. The growing downtown district features eight galleries and a historic opera house, offering visitors numerous opportunities to experience local art and culture. The district hosts various events throughout the year, including BurroFest in June, celebrating the intersection of art and Colorado's mining history.
9. Mancos Farmers Market
LOCAL PRODUCE & ART
The Mancos Farmers Market runs every Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. throughout the summer, beginning in June. Shoppers can browse fresh local produce, art created by local talents, and enjoy food truck fare. The market also features live music, creating a vibrant community atmosphere in picturesque Mancos.
10. Mesa Verde Stables
AUTHENTIC COWBOY CULTURE
Mesa Verde Stables offers an immersive experience in the cowboy culture of Mancos Colorado. Located less than 10 miles from Mesa Verde National Monument, the stables provide various riding experiences including Ranch Rides, All Day Rides, and Ute Tribal Park adventures. Visitors can connect with the region's Western heritage through these authentic horseback experiences.
11. Bomdiggity - Mancos Mystical Market
ECLECTIC MYSTIC SHOPPING
Bomdiggity - Mancos Mystical Market offers a unique shopping experience in the heart of Mancos. Visitors can browse through a variety of mystical and eclectic items that reflect the spiritual and artistic nature of the region. The market provides a distinctive alternative to traditional shopping venues, adding to Mancos' charm as an artistic community.
12. Columbine Bar
HISTORIC WESTERN SALOON
The Columbine Bar is one of the oldest operating bars in Colorado, preserving a piece of authentic Western history. This historical establishment contributes to Mancos' reputation for maintaining its Western character and heritage. Visitors can step back in time while enjoying drinks in this genuine frontier-era saloon.
13. Mancos Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center
LOCAL INFORMATION HUB
The Mancos Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center serves as the primary information resource for tourists exploring the Mancos area. Visitors can gather maps, brochures, and insider tips about local attractions, dining, and accommodations. The center's knowledgeable staff helps travelers make the most of their time in this historic gateway to Mesa Verde.
14. Mancos BurroFest
ART AND BURRO CELEBRATION
Mancos BurroFest is a unique festival hosted by the Mancos Creative District that celebrates the important role burros played in Colorado's mining history. The event features an obstacle course, costume contest, and live burro models for artists to capture in their work. Visitors can meet these remarkable animals and their owners, watch live art demonstrations, and enjoy food and live music during this distinctive cultural celebration.
15. Mesa Verde Motel
BOUTIQUE NATIONAL PARK LODGING
Mesa Verde Motel provides boutique lodging accommodation near Mesa Verde National Park. Located at 191 W. Railroad Ave in Mancos, this distinctive motel offers travelers a comfortable base for exploring the region's natural and cultural attractions. The motel's proximity to Mesa Verde National Park makes it an ideal choice for visitors wanting to maximize their time exploring the ancient cliff dwellings.