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Cool historical sites in Colorado

Stepping into these preserved corners of the past offers a refreshing break from the modern pace.

Based on 604 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
National Museum of World War II Aviation image 1
National Museum of World War II Aviation image 2
National Museum of World War II Aviation image 3
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Massive hangars house immaculately restored, flyable vintage aircraft arranged to evoke readiness for flight. The atmosphere blends sobering history with era-specific music, creating a unique, reflective mood. Interactive features like bi-plane flight simulators and visible restoration workshops engage visitors of all ages.

Authentic WWII artifacts and historic aircraft fill the museum. Detailed documentation and well-maintained airplanes highlight aviation history clearly.

Many very cool restorations showcase WWII aviation history. A bi-plane simulator adds an interactive, educational touch.

People are saying

"The historical sites here are amazing, with knowledgeable veteran volunteers sharing stories."

"The collection of airplanes and artifacts is really interesting."

"It's so cool seeing all the immaculate, fly-worthy planes up close."

Good to know

1

The museum offers guided tours to Westpac every hour.

2

Flying demonstrations occur on select days throughout the summer.

3

Fridays are ideal for a comprehensive tour of the museum.

02
Morrison Natural History Museum image 1
Natural history museum

Small, cozy museum offers hands-on exhibits and a working fossil lab where volunteers extract specimens. Peaceful atmosphere suits families, with a kid-friendly sandbox for digging dinosaur bones outdoors. Displays include local fossils and casts, creating an intimate, educational experience.

Extensive exhibits cover prehistoric Colorado and the Dinosaur Ridge area's fossil history. Knowledgeable guides explain paleontology and local geological history clearly.

Small size holds a lot of cool fossils. Touching dinosaur bones and seeing a baby stegosaurus footprint adds to the cool factor.

People are saying

"The museum guides here are so knowledgeable and make the displays come alive."

"The historical sites here have guides who are incredibly knowledgeable."

"The tour guides are so knowledgeable and fun."

Good to know

1

Tickets include a guided tour from an expert.

2

Regular tours are available at the museum.

3

The museum features actual fossils and allows close-up views of the lab.

03
Forney Museum of Transportation image 1

Massive vintage trains and an eclectic mix of vehicles fill a clean, spacious building with a quiet, peaceful atmosphere. Visitors interact with detailed model train layouts and explore displays ranging from motorcycles to airplanes. The faint scent of oil and well-maintained exhibits create a comfortable setting for transportation enthusiasts.

Unique pieces of transportation history fill the space, showcasing classic cars, trains, bicycles, planes, and trucks. Each vehicle comes with excellent historic details that tell interesting stories about America's past.

Loads of really cool cars and interesting vehicles fill the museum. Old photographs of downtown with trolley cars add a unique historical touch.

People are saying

"It's cool to see all the old trains and cars up close."

"I saw so many unique pieces of transportation history here."

"You'll see awesome historical cars, trains, and motorcycles here."

Good to know

1

The museum hosts a scavenger hunt event that visitors should not miss.

2

The model train show takes place on August 3-4, offering a unique experience.

3

The museum has ample parking available for visitors.

04
Cherokee Ranch & Castle image 1

Castle perched on a cliffside offers stunning views and medieval European architecture. Atmosphere feels historic and enchanting, with a slow, relaxed pace during events. Patios provide spacious areas for meals and dancing, enhancing the overall experience.

Tours include detailed lessons on the castle's history and its 15th and 16th century art and decorations. Staff and volunteers share stories with enthusiasm and offer a welcoming atmosphere.

Seriously cool art and antiquities collection stand out here. The castle tour adds a unique edge to the visit.

People are saying

"The tea service was lovely and I learned so much history."

"I learned so much about the castle's history and art."

"The staff here is so lovely and welcoming."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for all tours and events at Cherokee Ranch & Castle.

2

Tickets for the afternoon tea must be purchased in advance on their website.

3

The one-hour tour after tea provides excellent historical insights about the castle.

05
Cruise Room image 1

Lounge channels art deco glamour and Prohibition-era style with historic charm and colorful decor. Atmosphere feels classy and intimate, evoking a hidden speakeasy vibe. Cocktails stand out alongside a bustling yet refined energy.

A bustling art deco bar with a rich historic ambiance captures the feel of old Denver. The space holds a storied past with references to Germany and Italy, making it a notable landmark for history fans.

An intimate and art deco vibe fills the space with red hues that create a really cool atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found classic cocktails in a gorgeous Art Deco bar."

"I enjoyed classic cocktails in this historic bar."

"The Art Deco decor creates such a cool vibe."

Good to know

1

The bar closes at midnight, and the kitchen closes at 10pm.

2

It gets crowded on weekend nights, so come early for seating.

3

The Cruise Room is a small venue, better suited for smaller groups.

06
Schweiger Ranch image 1
Historical landmark

Historical ranch offers a preserved setting that brings the past to life with a quiet, welcoming atmosphere. Visitors often enjoy strolling or biking along park trails, with golf cart rides available to ease access from parking areas.

Historic buildings stand out with detailed tours explaining their background. The site offers a beautiful and historic atmosphere that highlights its past.

Volunteering here offers a cool way to give back to the community. The place itself has a laid-back vibe that feels welcoming and genuine.

People are saying

"I loved the family-oriented activities at this historical site."

"You'll find fun activities like wagon rides and marshmallow roasting."

"I found this place to be pretty awesome."

Good to know

1

Parking is available, but it can be a trek; golf cart rides are offered for those in need.

2

The ranch hosts free family-friendly events suitable for all ages.

3

During fall fest, enjoy activities like food trucks, wagon rides, and a mini pumpkin patch.

07
National Ballpark Museum image 1

Small space packed with vintage baseball memorabilia and exhibits on classic 1920s ballparks creates a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere. Visitors find a quiet library room with a chess table featuring Hall of Fame players, adding a unique touch. The museum draws serious baseball fans interested in the history and stories of early MLB stadiums.

Exhibits showcase historic MLB ballparks and memorabilia from early 1900s teams. Staff share detailed stories and offer a strong sense of baseball history and nostalgia.

Displays include cool baseball artifacts with a strong focus on Cleveland history. Many unique items and interesting stories highlight the collection.

People are saying

"The owner's passion for baseball history makes this museum come alive."

"The owner's passion for baseball history makes these historical sites come alive."

"It's got so many cool baseball artifacts and unique items."

Good to know

1

Admission is a $20 donation per adult.

2

The museum is a 90-second walk from Coors Field.

3

Expect to see unique memorabilia from classic ballparks.

08
Historic Elitch Theater image 1

Retro theater space features historic restoration and balcony-supporting poles that affect sightlines. Atmosphere blends vintage charm with all-volunteer enthusiasm for preservation. Tours highlight rich 134-year history tied to original amusement park origins.

The site features the Historic Elitch Theater with a 134-year history. Tours cover the theater's origins, the original farm, gardens, zoo, and key figures like Mary Elitch and Helen Bonfils.

People are saying

"I learned so much about the history of Elitch's theater and farm."

"It's cool that this historic venue is still here."

Good to know

1

The theater is not climate controlled, so dress accordingly.

2

The theater hosts special events like the Rocky Horror Picture Show during Halloween.

3

Seating can fill up quickly during special events, so arrive early.

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