The Ultimate Guide to Ouray, Colorado: 15 Things to Do in the “Switzerland of America”

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Nicknamed the Switzerland of America, Ouray is one of my favorite mountain towns in Colorado — and I don't say that lightly. Tucked into a narrow valley in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, it's the kind of place that stops you in your tracks the moment you arrive. Peaks rise in every direction, Victorian storefronts line the main street, and the whole town hums with a laid-back energy that's hard to find in more well-known Colorado destinations.

Ouray has something for everyone: serious outdoor adventure in the form of hiking, ice climbing, canyoneering, and off-roading; rich mining history dating back to 1876; natural hot springs right in the center of town; and a food and drink scene that's genuinely impressive for a town of its size. It's also far more approachable than Telluride — better value, less crowded, and with an authenticity that's easy to fall in love with.

I visited last fall and loved it so much I'm heading back this summer. This list will likely grow, but here are 15 things to do in and around Ouray that I can personally recommend.

Explore the Town of Ouray

1. Stay at the newly-renovated Western Hotel

The Western Hotel & Spa is one of my favorite hotel stays in Colorado, full stop. The building is steeped in history, but the renovation got everything right: genuinely comfortable beds (not always a given in historic properties), functional mini kitchens, updated amenities, and a beautiful new spa. It's also home to a fantastic restaurant — more on that later.

2. Wander Main Street

Ouray's Main Street is a walkable National Historic District — lined with 1800s-era buildings, framed by mountain views, and filled with an eclectic mix of shops that range from elegant jewelry to antique furniture to taxidermied animals playing poker (yes, really). My favorites: The Gator Emporium, Twig+Feather, Rockin P Ranch, Silver Lynx, Grateful Goods, and The Blue Pear.

3. Soak at Ouray Hot Springs

Right in the center of town, Ouray Hot Springs is the ideal way to end an active day. These sulfur-free mineral pools are family-friendly and genuinely scenic — and the water holds deep significance for the Ute people, including Chief Ouray himself, for whom the town is named. Tickets are $26 for adults and $16 for youth; children under 4 are free. Hours are Monday–Friday noon to 9pm and Saturday–Sunday 11am to 9pm.

4. Catch Sunset at the Imogene Hotel Rooftop

The rooftop bar at the Imogene Hotel is a must. Fire pit, 360-degree mountain views, and exactly the kind of unhurried vibe you come to a place like Ouray for. They're open Thursday through Saturday from roughly 4–8pm — check their Instagram @theimogene for current hours before you go.

5. Have a Beer at Ouray Brewery

Ouray Brewery has one of the best rooftop settings in town — and the beer backs it up. Their Camp Bird Blonde Ale took home "Best Lighter/Summer Beer" at the San Juan Brewfest. The food is casual (burgers, wings, salads), making this a better lunch stop than a dinner destination. But for an afternoon pint with a view, it's hard to beat.

6. Taste Colorado Wine

Ouray isn't just a beer town. Stop into Sauvage Spectrum for a tasting featuring wines sourced from Palisade, Colorado. If you want to go deeper into Colorado wine country, I have a full guide to visiting Palisade that covers everything from the best wineries to how to actually get around without a designated driver.

7. Have Craft Cocktails at The Saloon at The Western

The saloon at The Western has been in its original 1890s location since the beginning, and it still feels like it. The space retains its vintage charm while serving well-made craft cocktails — the historic setting makes everything taste a little better. Open daily noon to 10pm, with dinner reservations available in the restaurant starting at 5pm.

8. Dine at The Kitchen at The Western

If you have one dinner in Ouray, make it here. The Kitchen is rooted in farm-to-fire cooking — locally sourced, seasonal ingredients prepared over an open hearth. If you can snag a spot at the Chef's Counter, do it. Sitting fireside and watching the team work is one of those dining experiences you genuinely remember.

9. Discover Mi Mexico for a Casual Night

Tucked behind The Western, this unassuming Mexican spot is a welcome find. Friendly service, solid food, and zero tourist-trap energy. The spicy shrimp and micheladas are the move, and it's a great option when you want something relaxed and affordable.

10. End the Night at Silver Eagle Saloon

If you want the full Colorado mountain town experience, finish your evening at Silver Eagle Saloon. Pool table, jukebox, cold beer, and absolutely no pretense. As the locals apparently say: it's not a question of where you're going after dinner, it's whether you're going to the Silver Eagle.

Outdoor Adventures Around Ouray

11. Walk to Cascade Falls

A short, easy walk from downtown leads to Cascade Falls — especially beautiful in spring when snowmelt is feeding it. If you want more of a workout, continue up to the Upper Falls for an extra payoff.

12. Hike the Perimeter Trail

This 5.4-mile loop is the best way to see Ouray from every angle — but come prepared. It gains 1,500 feet of elevation, crosses some narrow cliffside sections, and is not for anyone nervous about heights. Sturdy shoes, plenty of water, and an early start are non-negotiable. The views, though, are extraordinary.

13. Explore Box Cañon

Accessible from the Perimeter Trail or by car (about $7 for entry and parking), Box Cañon Falls Park is a dramatic slot canyon with a waterfall and short trails winding through it. It's one of those places that feels much more remote than it is — and the mist from the falls on a warm day is genuinely refreshing.

14. Drive the Million Dollar Highway

One of the most scenic drives in America runs south from Ouray along U.S. Route 550 toward Silverton. It is also, fair warning, one of the more nerve-wracking — narrow lanes, sheer drop-offs, and no guardrails in places. Drive it only in clear weather, take it slowly, and use the pull-offs. The views more than justify the white knuckles. It's about an hour to Silverton, with excellent hiking trailheads along the way — use AllTrails to find the right one for your energy level on any given day. This drive is probably the most iconic during late September and early October when the leaves turn yellow in Colorado (which is when the photo here was taken).

15. Make the Trip to Telluride

About an hour in the other direction from Silverton lies Telluride, and it's worth the drive. Ride the free gondola for some of the most jaw-dropping views in Colorado, wander the beautifully preserved downtown, and plan to spend at least a night or two if you can. It's a destination in its own right, and Ouray makes a natural base for exploring it.

Bonus: Adventure Tours from Ouray

On this particular trip we kept things mostly low-key, but Ouray is a serious hub for guided outdoor adventure — Jeep off-roading, ice climbing in winter, canyoneering, rock climbing, and more. Plenty of local outfitters run half-day and full-day trips. If that's your thing, Ouray is an exceptional basecamp for it.

Questions? Planning a trip?

Have questions or want help planning your Colorado trip? Reach out anytime — I'm happy to help.