Nestled within a canyon in the mountains of Colorado, Telluride is a scenic destination with much to offer autumn travelers. With snowy peaks and golden aspen leaves as a backdrop and myriad activities for visitors, this town offers a breathtaking destination in which to spend the Thanksgiving holiday. Outstanding winter sports, a rich history, and luxurious accommodations make Telluride a unique place to visit.
Get Outside
Thanksgiving is an excellent time to visit Telluride. This time of year is early for the main skiing season, and thus can be less crowded, yet the most anticipated attractions will be open and available for those in town. The Telluride/Mountain Village aerial Gondola opens in mid-November and offers the benefits of free public transportation with the added bonus of a fun way to get around and take in the sights. The gondola also remains open until midnight, making it easy to enjoy some local nightlife before turning in for the evening. This town also offers world class skiing with the Telluride Ski Resort opening on Thanksgiving Day. For those who would prefer to do a bit of exploring, the surrounding wilderness offers various trails and opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, ice skating, and more. Whether hiking to the famous Bear Creek Falls or taking a snowmobile tour of the mountains, there is something for every outdoor adventurer.
A Rich History
Along with all the activities nature has to offer, the town itself has a lot to engage visitors. Originally established as a mining town, under a completely different name, Telluride experienced rapid growth once connected to a railroad, only to lose much of its population due to a combination of World War One and a devastating crash in silver prices. Today, once again a thriving community, Telluride has managed to preserve much of its history, which visitors can explore just by walking Main Street and visiting the local shops and restaurants. For those looking for a more in-depth account of the town’s history, the Telluride Historical Museum is a great attraction.
Time to Relax
Whether on a romantic getaway or spending the Thanksgiving holiday with the entire family, there are plenty of places to relax at the end of the day. Luxurious accommodations are just a few clicks away when booking through Telluride Rentals. Visitors can select a beautiful, locally-owned home to rent based on their preferred location, number of travelers, and cozy amenities, making this part of holiday travel wonderfully simple. Unlike most cramped hotel rooms, these homes include kitchens for those who would like to prepare a homecooked holiday meal as well as the space to enjoy Thanksgiving dinner. You can contact our concierge service to find out which houses come equipped with a personal chef, or have one brought in for the holiday weekend.
Where to Eat
There are plenty of restaurants to choose from when spending Thanksgiving in Telluride, from places for a quick bite to a full multi-course dinner, travelers will not be disappointed. A range of food options are available, and many of the restaurants take reservations. Some are even open on Thanksgiving Day for those who would prefer not to spend their vacation cooking. Chop House Restaurant, Smuggler’s Brew Pub, and Brown Dog Pizza are just a few of the top-rated restaurants found right in town.
Ultimately, Telluride is an excellent place to spend a memorable Thanksgiving. Beautiful scenery, varied restaurant options, and activities for the entire family make it a good choice for holiday travel. Who wouldn’t want to spend a day on the slopes or the trail before coming in for an evening of shopping and a nice Thanksgiving dinner in this cozy town?