Discover Things to Do in Carbondale, CO
Nestled in a picturesque location in the Rocky Mountains, Carbondale, CO, is a quick drive away from the iconic skiing and shopping in Aspen and only a few hours from the amenities of Denver. But visitors and residents in Carbondale don’t have to leave the town to find plenty of things to do. Find out more about things to do in Carbondale, CO, below, including the best attractions, outdoor activities, wedding venues, golf clubs, and shopping locations.
Introduction to Carbondale, CO
Carbondale is a relatively small town with a population of less than 10,000 as of the 2020 census, but it packs a big punch when it comes to amenities and attractions. Visitors to the area are likely to first notice the awe-inspiring natural beauty. The snow-covered peak of Mount Sopris can be seen in the distance, as it rises majestically just outside of town, and the Roaring Fork River meanders through the valley nearby.
History of Carbondale, CO
The original settlers of Carbondale, CO, relocated from a town by the same name in Pennsylvania. Originally an agricultural and ranching community, Carbondale eventually became a second location to house people working and playing in Aspen as the ski resort town became more popular in the 1980s and after. In recent years, Carbondale has come into its own, growing in population and hosting larger events and attractions, including arts events such as Mountain Fair and the Carbondale Wild West Rodeo.
Why You Should Visit Carbondale, CO…and Consider Staying
The city of Carbondale, CO, offers a wide range of opportunities for individuals, couples, and families. The area is served by a number of elementary, middle, and high schools, including both Montessori- and Waldorf-style schools. Carbondale Community School also provides later educational options for residents. According to Area Vibes, the crime rate in Carbondale is 55% below the national average, and the unemployment rate is almost 30% lower than the national average. Even before getting into the plentiful list of top sights in Carbondale, CO, to visit, you can see that this little town is a safe, enjoyable haven for many.
Why You Should Visit Carbondale, CO…and Consider Staying
The city of Carbondale, CO, offers a wide range of opportunities for individuals, couples, and families. The area is served by a number of elementary, middle, and high schools, including both Montessori- and Waldorf-style schools. Carbondale Community School also provides later educational options for residents. According to Area Vibes, the crime rate in Carbondale is 55% below the national average, and the unemployment rate is almost 30% lower than the national average. Even before getting into the plentiful list of top sights in Carbondale, CO, to visit, you can see that this little town is a safe, enjoyable haven for many.
Attractions in Carbondale, CO
You’ll find plenty to do in Carbondale, from tourist attractions to locations designed to welcome residents with relaxing environments at the end of a day full of work or play.
Colorado Creative Corridor
The Colorado Creative Corridor takes visitors to the area through Certified Creative Districts. Stops on this path in Carbondale include True Nature Healing Arts Organic Café, the Allegria Restaurant, and the Carbondale Wild West Rodeo.
Colorado Creative Corridor
The Colorado Creative Corridor takes visitors to the area through Certified Creative Districts. Stops on this path in Carbondale include True Nature Healing Arts Organic Café, the Allegria Restaurant, and the Carbondale Wild West Rodeo.
Marble Distilling Co. and the Distillery Inn
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or drinks with friends, the Marble Distilling Co. is the place to be. Paired with the Distillery Inn, this location offers a place for revelry or rest. Suites at the inn include amenities such as private balconies, fireplaces, king-size beds and sleeper sofas, and spa bathrooms.
Marble Distilling Co. and the Distillery Inn
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or drinks with friends, the Marble Distilling Co. is the place to be. Paired with the Distillery Inn, this location offers a place for revelry or rest. Suites at the inn include amenities such as private balconies, fireplaces, king-size beds and sleeper sofas, and spa bathrooms.
Carbondale, CO, Offers Beautiful Wedding Venues
Imagine saying your vows against the backdrop of majestic Mount Sopris or the Roaring Fork River valley, a beautiful and historic old church, or a country club with a Western-style clubhouse and rustic ambiance. Brides and grooms can choose epic locations throughout the city for big or small celebrations on their big day.
Enjoying the Outdoors in Carbondale, CO
With the Rocky Mountains as a backdrop, the outdoors game in Carbondale, CO, is pretty strong. Hikers, kayakers, fishers, bikers, and many others can find local amenities in the area that rival those in pricier, more populous locations, making outdoor activities some of the best things to do in the area.
Roaring Fork River
Easy access to the Roaring Fork River makes Carbondale a great location for warm-weather water sport enthusiasts. Kayaking, fishing, swimming, and white water rafting are on the menu in various locations within minutes of town.
Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort
Test your skills on the slopes at the mammoth Aspen Snowmass ski resort, which boasts four mountains and plenty of amenities. From the gondola rides to the live music, the entire family can find something to do any time of year.
Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort
Test your skills on the slopes at the mammoth Aspen Snowmass ski resort, which boasts four mountains and plenty of amenities. From the gondola rides to the live music, the entire family can find something to do any time of year.
Frying Pan Road
Another winding drive through scenic locations in the area is Frying Pan Road. This drive is also around 30 miles, and the road lends itself to biking for those who want to put their legs to the test in the mountains.
The Independence Pass
Visitors or residents in Carbondale can enjoy the picturesque view along the Independence Pass drive during summer and early fall. The drive is just over 30 miles and takes around an hour to complete, depending on how long you stop to enjoy the sights.
Penny Hot Springs
This location on the Crystal River is free to access. The natural hot mineral spring offers a restful place to take a dip while you enjoy the incredible views of canyons and mountains.
The West Elk Loop Scenic and Historic Byway
Carbondale is located on the north end of the West Elk Loop Scenic and Historic Byway. This drive takes you through more than 200 miles of historic locations, scenic spaces, and towns in the area. Do part of the drive as a quick addition to your day in Carbondale, or spend a day meandering through the miles and stopping at whatever attractions seem to call your name.
The West Elk Loop Scenic and Historic Byway
Carbondale is located on the north end of the West Elk Loop Scenic and Historic Byway. This drive takes you through more than 200 miles of historic locations, scenic spaces, and towns in the area. Do part of the drive as a quick addition to your day in Carbondale, or spend a day meandering through the miles and stopping at whatever attractions seem to call your name.
The Maroon Bells
Take a bus up to view the Maroon Bells, two of the most photographed peaks in the entire state. Visiting during the week lets you enjoy stunning views and outdoor amenities without fighting larger crowds. You can hike in the area by choosing an easy 1-mile trail or adventuring on longer trails that make wildlife sightings more likely.
The Maroon Bells
Take a bus up to view the Maroon Bells, two of the most photographed peaks in the entire state. Visiting during the week lets you enjoy stunning views and outdoor amenities without fighting larger crowds. You can hike in the area by choosing an easy 1-mile trail or adventuring on longer trails that make wildlife sightings more likely.
Carbondale, CO, is Home to Exclusive Social Clubs
If you decide to stay in Carbondale as a resident, rest assured you can find and create community easily in the area. One way to do so is to join one of the amazing social clubs, where membership usually comes with plenty of perks. Play tennis and golf with others, enjoy fine dining, or host an event and bring the entire family in to marvel at the gorgeous landscape you call home.
Carbondale, CO, Is Home to Amazing Golf Courses
Golfers can find plenty of opportunities for teeing off with mountain views and testing their swing on sloping courses that run through the majestic landscape. Carbondale is home to three golf courses, including Carbondale country club courses, and there are other options within a short drive. Meet with family and friends to perfect your game and lower your handicap, or talk shop with a new client on the links.
Arts, Museums, and Culture in Carbondale, CO
Elevate your experience in Carbondale by enjoying arts and education at historical attractions and museums.
Powers Art Center
The Powers Art Center is free to visit, and you’ll find a rotating collection of artists and exhibits on view. The museum is closed to the general public on Mondays, but you may be able to plan for a group viewing by calling ahead. As with many attractions in the area, winter weather may change operating hours for the museum, so always check before you go.
Powers Art Center
The Powers Art Center is free to visit, and you’ll find a rotating collection of artists and exhibits on view. The museum is closed to the general public on Mondays, but you may be able to plan for a group viewing by calling ahead. As with many attractions in the area, winter weather may change operating hours for the museum, so always check before you go.
Mt. Sopris Historical Museum
Explore a historic home full of authentic artifacts and furniture to better understand the story of historic settlers in the area.
Mt. Sopris Historical Museum
Explore a historic home full of authentic artifacts and furniture to better understand the story of historic settlers in the area.
Redstone Castle
This wellness resort and spa offers a wide array of activities and amenities to serve body, soul, and mind. Engage in altitude training to get yourself right with the mountains, or enjoy meditation options indoors and out. Redstone Castle also offers outdoor adventures, weight loss programs, and fine dining.
Redstone Castle
This wellness resort and spa offers a wide array of activities and amenities to serve body, soul, and mind. Engage in altitude training to get yourself right with the mountains, or enjoy meditation options indoors and out. Redstone Castle also offers outdoor adventures, weight loss programs, and fine dining.
Entertainment in Carbondale, CO
While the wild western vistas of the area provide their own entertainment, you can take a break from adventuring and exploration for laughs and thrills of a different kind in Carbondale, CO.
Thunder River Theatre Company
Break away from mainstream blockbusters and enjoy local theater at the Thunder River Theatre Company. Single tickets for shows are $35, but locals can get a season pass for access to all shows within a season at a discount.
Shopping in Carbondale, CO
Whether you need fresh veggies for tonight’s dinner, gear for your next go down the slopes, or a souvenir of your time in the Rockies, shopping in Carbondale, CO, has you covered.
Carbondale Farmers Market
Open during the summer months on Wednesdays, the Carbondale Farmers Market offers access to local produce and hand-crafted products. Shop home-grown veggies, fresh meat, baked goods, and artisan items that you can enjoy on the spot or bring home for later.
Carbondale Farmers Market
Open during the summer months on Wednesdays, the Carbondale Farmers Market offers access to local produce and hand-crafted products. Shop home-grown veggies, fresh meat, baked goods, and artisan items that you can enjoy on the spot or bring home for later.
Vintage Ski World
This unique shop connects the history of skiing to modern slope-lovers. Peruse displays of vintage skis and other items, and buy patches, pins, snowshoes, boots, poles, and anything else you need to display your love of skiing or hit the slopes with function and style. Vintage Ski World also offers plenty of fun gifts for loved ones.
Vintage Ski World
This unique shop connects the history of skiing to modern slope-lovers. Peruse displays of vintage skis and other items, and buy patches, pins, snowshoes, boots, poles, and anything else you need to display your love of skiing or hit the slopes with function and style. Vintage Ski World also offers plenty of fun gifts for loved ones.
Events and Event Venues in Carbondale, CO
Plan your trip to Carbondale, CO, around a specific event. The calendar is hopping year-round in the area, so check out some of the events and event venues of interest to visitors and residents alike.
Harvest Festival
Sustainable Settings hosts an annual Harvest Festive just outside of Carbondale every fall. Residents and visitors alike come together to celebrate the bounty of the season. View demonstrations on agriculture and related topics, enjoy local food, and participate in activities for kids and families.
Harvest Festival
Sustainable Settings hosts an annual Harvest Festive just outside of Carbondale every fall. Residents and visitors alike come together to celebrate the bounty of the season. View demonstrations on agriculture and related topics, enjoy local food, and participate in activities for kids and families.
Parry’s Oktoberfest Celebration
From early September to early October, Parry’s pizza locations in the area celebrate Oktoberfest with seasonal foods, beers, and ales. Stein hosting competitions occur at each location on different dates during the month.
Parry’s Oktoberfest Celebration
From early September to early October, Parry’s pizza locations in the area celebrate Oktoberfest with seasonal foods, beers, and ales. Stein hosting competitions occur at each location on different dates during the month.
Sneffels Fiber Arts Festival
Held annually at the end of September, this festival is a fundraiser for Weehawken Creative Arts. Fiber artists display a variety of products and demonstrate crafts during the event. Visitors can shop for artisan items and local foods; while the event is free, there is a small suggested donation for admission.
Sneffels Fiber Arts Festival
Held annually at the end of September, this festival is a fundraiser for Weehawken Creative Arts. Fiber artists display a variety of products and demonstrate crafts during the event. Visitors can shop for artisan items and local foods; while the event is free, there is a small suggested donation for admission.
Boulder Jewish Film Festival
As the weather cools and the leaves finish falling, move to indoor event options with the Boulder Jewish Film Festival.
Boulder Jewish Film Festival
As the weather cools and the leaves finish falling, move to indoor event options with the Boulder Jewish Film Festival.
Palisade Art Festival
If you’re looking to browse art in a variety of media and categories, the Palisade Art Festival might be for you. Vendors and artists display and sell items in categories including jewelry, wood, glass, and painting. This event has no admission charge and typically takes place in late September.
Palisade Art Festival
If you’re looking to browse art in a variety of media and categories, the Palisade Art Festival might be for you. Vendors and artists display and sell items in categories including jewelry, wood, glass, and painting. This event has no admission charge and typically takes place in late September.
Pueblo Chile and Frijoles Festival
Head over to Pueblo for the day to enjoy the tastes of Chile and Frijoles Festival. Try a variety of tasty chili dishes, buy fresh produce or crafts from locals, and enjoy live music and other entertainment in downtown Pueblo.
Pueblo Chile and Frijoles Festival
Head over to Pueblo for the day to enjoy the tastes of Chile and Frijoles Festival. Try a variety of tasty chili dishes, buy fresh produce or crafts from locals, and enjoy live music and other entertainment in downtown Pueblo.
Nearby Areas and Neighborhoods of Carbondale, CO
Looking to make the area around Carbondale your permanent home or a location for a second home? You have plenty of areas and neighborhoods to choose from.
Glenwood Springs
Settle down near world-famous hot springs in a neighborhood that feeds your adventure bug. Glenwood Springs is near plenty of outdoor attractions and exploration locations.
Snowmass Village
Hang your hat (your ski hat, that is) in a home that affords the easiest access to the slopes. Snowmass Village is the heart of ski resort territory in the area, but you’ll also be near plenty of fine dining, shopping, and other attractions.
Aspen
Aspen is likely the most well-known area near Carbondale, CO. Choose a home in the town to be near skiing and plenty of other amenities, or settle down in a less populated area nearby so you can visit Aspen on the weekends.
Basalt
Walk downtown streets that boast building facades that are more than 100 years old. Basalt was an important location during the peak of railroad days. Today, it’s a community that many enjoy living in.
El Jebel
A small but growing location in the area, El Jebel is home to commercial locations and shopping and under 5,000 permanent residents. That makes it an ideal location for those looking to move to the area but who don’t want to live among the masses.
New Castle
Another small town in the area, New Castle boasts some great restaurants and plenty of outdoor attractions. It’s near enough to Carbondale and the surrounding skiing areas to support easy access to those activities.
Silt
Silt boasts a population of under 5,000 and a rich history related to the land and the growing economics of the area. Drive a few minutes to an hour away, and you’ll find plenty of outdoor options and views.
Where to Stay in Carbondale, CO
From country clubs to ski resorts, you’ll find plenty of locations for spending a night or three in Carbondale, CO. Consider the Distillery Inn, camp at the Crystal River KOA, or overnight at Avalanche Ranch. You’ll also find plenty of hotels and Airbnb options in the area; whatever your needs are for a stay in Carbondale, CO, there’s a location that has you covered.
Plan Your Trip to Carbondale, CO, Today
Whether you’re planning a ski trip or summer adventure or scoping out the location for your family’s next home, Carbondale, CO, is worth considering. Start with our list of best things to do in Carbondale, CO.