Things To Do
in Cortez
Cortez is a small city located in the southwestern corner of Colorado. It serves as the commercial and cultural hub for the surrounding area, including the nearby Mesa Verde National Park. Cortez offers a mix of modern amenities and outdoor recreational opportunities, such as hiking, camping, and exploring ancient archaeological sites.
The town has a rich history tied to Native American cultures and the Old West, making it a fascinating destination for visitors.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Cliff Palace to witness the stunning ancient cliff dwellings. Enjoy a guided tour to learn about the history and culture of the Ancestral Puebloans.
Hike the Petroglyph Point Trail where you'll discover fascinating rock art along the way. Don’t forget to take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.
Head back into town for a hearty meal at one of the local restaurants. Celebrate your adventurous day with a relaxing evening walk under the starry sky.
Begin your day with a drive to Sand Canyon to enjoy its unique rock formations. Spend your morning taking pictures of the stunning scenery.
Explore the trails, looking out for interesting wildlife and plants along the way. Keep hydrated and bring snacks to maintain energy during your hike.
As night falls, set up your telescope for some spectacular stargazing. The clear skies in Cortez provide a perfect backdrop for observing constellations.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical significance with close ties to Native American culture and the history of the west.
- Access to stunning natural landscapes, including the nearby Mesa Verde National Park and San Juan Mountains.
- A small-town atmosphere with a strong sense of community and low crime rates.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and visiting historical sites.
- Support for local businesses and farmers' markets, which contributes to the local economy.
- Limited access to higher education institutions and specialized healthcare services.
- Possibly fewer entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Potential for harsh weather conditions, including cold winters and hot summers.
- Economic dependence on tourism and agriculture, which can be vulnerable to fluctuations.
- Limited public transportation options, requiring personal vehicles for commuting.
Best Activities in Cortez
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore ancient cliff dwellings and hike through stunning landscapes that feature archaeological sites and diverse wildlife.
Discover the rich cultural history and breathtaking canyons filled with archaeological sites and opportunities for hiking and photography.
Enjoy world-class mountain biking and hiking trails that offer scenic views and a variety of terrains suitable for all skill levels.
Experience the thrill of climbing at nearby locations like the Dolores River Canyon, offering routes for beginners to advanced climbers.
Navigate through beautiful landscapes and enjoy the thrill of whitewater kayaking or leisurely paddling in quieter sections of the river.
Reel in trout and kokanee salmon while enjoying peaceful views at this large reservoir that’s great for fishing and boating.
Explore various locations along the trail to observe diverse bird species and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
Tours
Uncover the best of Cortez with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Cortez
Visit one of these nice places.
Renowned for its stunning cliff dwellings and expansive vistas, Mesa Verde National Park offers breathtaking views and excellent photo opportunities of ancient Puebloan ruins set against a backdrop of dramatic landscapes.
A tranquil city park with well-maintained green spaces, mature trees, and a picturesque pond. It serves as a great spot for family photos and enjoying the natural beauty.
This monument features a vast array of archaeological sites and stunning canyons, providing opportunities for scenic photography showcasing both history and natural beauty.
A unique location featuring an underground cave with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Perfect for adventurous photographers looking for something different.
Offering sweeping views of the surrounding area, this reservation provides a different perspective of the scenic landscape, ideal for landscape photography.
Driving along scenic byways like the San Juan Skyway offers numerous viewpoints and breathtaking landscapes, perfect for capturing the beauty of Colorado’s diverse terrains.
Food in Cortez
Cortez Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A delicious frybread topped with seasoned ground beef, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and a variety of other toppings. Try it at Martys Navajo Taco in Cortez.
Must-Try!
A hearty stew made with pork or chicken, potatoes, and of course, green chilies. Find this warming dish at Main Street Brewery.
A burger patty made from lean and flavorful bison meat, often accompanied by local ingredients such as green chilies and pepper jack cheese. Sample this at Stonefish Sushi & More.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Cortez better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open during the summer months, the market offers a wide array of fresh produce, local honey, artisanal goods, and fantastic street food like Navajo tacos and tamales.
For an authentic street food experience, head to the taco truck for delicious tacos, burritos, and other Mexican delights prepared with fresh, flavorful ingredients.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cortez is located near beautiful natural landscapes. When engaging in outdoor activities, it is important to respect the environment by following Leave No Trace principles and being courteous to fellow hikers and visitors.
Cortez is near several Indigenous lands. Showing respect for the local Native American cultures by acknowledging their history and traditions is essential. If visiting cultural sites, consider taking part in guided tours led by Indigenous peoples to gain a deeper understanding.
Residents of Cortez tend to value friendliness and direct communication. Greeting people with a smile and making small talk is appreciated and can foster positive interactions in both social and business environments.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Cortez with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Cortez
Ensure a smooth experience
In Cortez, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is customary in service industries such as restaurants, bars, and taxis. The standard tip is usually around 15-20% of the total bill, depending on the service quality. Tipping is seen as a way to encourage good service and is often a significant part of workers' income, particularly for servers and bartenders.
Payment methods in Cortez typically include cash, credit, and debit cards. Many establishments also accept mobile payment options and digital wallets. Most businesses display their preferred payment methods at the entrance, and it is common for customers to tip in cash, even if they pay the bill with a credit card.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Cortez.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a wonderful time to visit Cortez as the weather begins to warm up, with daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to mid-70s°F. Wildflowers bloom, and it's ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring archaeological sites. Expect mild weather, less crowded tourist spots, and some occasional rain.
Summer (June to August) brings warm to hot temperatures, often exceeding 90°F during the day. This is peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and busy attractions. It's perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and visiting nearby national parks. Be prepared for potential thunderstorms and plan for hydration during outdoor activities.
Fall (September to November) is a beautiful season with cooler temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 80s°F. The changing leaves create stunning vistas, particularly in late September to early October. It's a great time for photography and outdoor activities with fewer crowds and comfortable weather, making it a favorite among many visitors.
Winter (December to February) can be quite cold in Cortez, with temperatures often dropping to the 20s°F at night and daytime highs in the 40s°F. While snowfall is less common, it can occur, especially in higher elevations. This season offers a quieter experience with opportunities for winter sports in nearby locations and offers a peaceful atmosphere lacking in summer crowds.
Cortez at Night
Hiking in Cortez
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning area with numerous hiking trails that showcase ancient ruins and beautiful canyons.
Famous for its archaeological sites, this park offers several hiking trails through its breathtaking landscapes.
Features a variety of trails that lead through the stunning landscapes and ancient structures of the area.
A vast area offering numerous hiking opportunities with diverse terrain and beautiful mountain views.
A scenic area with hiking trails along the river, perfect for enjoying nature and wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Cortez through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Cortez by plane.
Located approximately 45 miles northwest of Cortez, this airport serves the southwestern Colorado region with primary connections to major US cities.
Situated about 50 miles southwest of Cortez, this airport provides various domestic flights and serves Farmington and surrounding areas in New Mexico.
Located approximately 65 miles north of Cortez, this airport primarily serves the Telluride area and connects to select major airports during the ski season.
Located about 170 miles northeast of Cortez, this is a larger airport offering a wide range of domestic and some international flights.
Situated roughly 210 miles south of Cortez, this is the largest airport in New Mexico, offering extensive domestic connections and some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly non-Hispanic white population.
Includes people of Hispanic or Latino origin, often with a diverse cultural background.
Includes members of various Native American tribes, reflecting the area's indigenous heritage.
A smaller demographic group compared to others in Cortez.
Includes individuals of Asian descent, representing a minor percentage of the population.
Includes individuals who do not fall into the aforementioned categories and may represent a variety of backgrounds.
The Soul of Cortez
Discover the essence of Cortez through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played team sport in Cortez, enjoyed by both youth and adults, often featuring local leagues and school competitions.
Soccer is popular among children and teens in Cortez, with local clubs and community programs fostering interest and participation.
High school football has a strong following in Cortez, with games being community events that gather local support.
Baseball is a traditional sport in Cortez, with youth leagues and community teams offering opportunities for family involvement.
Cycling is embraced in Cortez with local trails and events, appealing to recreational riders and competitive cyclists alike.
Given the scenic surroundings of Cortez, hiking is a popular outdoor activity enjoyed by residents and visitors for fitness and exploration.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cortez.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Cortez offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly alternatives, with creative dishes based on fresh local produce and flavorsome ingredients. Be sure to check out The Farm Bistro and Pepperhead Restaurant for delightful vegetarian and vegan offerings.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can relish in gluten-free choices at various establishments. Main Street Brewery and Stonefish Sushi & More are known for their gluten-free options, ensuring everyone can enjoy the culinary delights of Cortez.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Cortez with these cultural adventures.
