Things to do in Cortez

Activities, attractions and tours

Mesa Verde National Park which includes landscape views, tranquil scenes and mountains
Mesa Verde National Park showing landscape views and tranquil scenes
Knife Edge Trail showing landscape views and tranquil scenes
Mesa Verde National Park showing tranquil scenes
Balcony House which includes heritage architecture

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What to do in Cortez

Popular places to visit

Cortez Cultural Center

You can spend time studying the exhibits at Cortez Cultural Center during your trip to Cortez. While you're in the area, wander around the natural setting.

Cortez Cultural Center

Yucca House National Monument

You can enjoy some culture when you stop by Yucca House National Monument in Cortez. Amble around this quaint area's scenic parks and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Yucca House National Monument

Colorado Welcome Center at Cortez

You can spend an afternoon studying the exhibits at Colorado Welcome Center at Cortez in Cortez. While in this quaint area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.

Colorado Welcome Center at Cortez

Sutcliffe Vineyards

You can enjoy a tasting or tour at Sutcliffe Vineyards during your travels to Cortez. Amble around this quaint area's scenic parks and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Sutcliffe Vineyards

Clay Mesa art Gallery and Studio

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Clay Mesa art Gallery and Studio in Cortez. Discover the mountain views in this quaint area, or seek out the hiking trails.

Clay Mesa art Gallery and Studio

Crow Canyon Archaeological Center

You can spend time studying the exhibits at Crow Canyon Archaeological Center during your trip to Cortez. Wander the area's scenic parks or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

Crow Canyon Archaeological Center

Cultural Park

You can spend time browsing the exhibits at Cultural Park during your travels in Cortez. While you're in the area, wander around the natural setting.

Cultural Park

Southwest Health System

Though Southwest Health System might be what brings you to town, perhaps you'll have a chance to explore more of Cortez while you are here.

Southwest Health System

Hawkins Preserve

You can learn about the history of Cortez with a trip to Hawkins Preserve. Amble around this quaint area's scenic parks and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Hawkins Preserve
Mesa Verde National Park which includes landscape views, a gorge or canyon and tranquil scenes

Mesa Verde National Park

Frequently asked questions

Is Cortez worth visiting?
Cortez has a unique blend of culture, local charm and attractions. Whether you're into history, nature or local culinary flavors, there's a lot to enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Cortez?
Anasazi Heritage Center and Mesa Verde National Park Entrance are two awesome places to kick-start your vacation adventures. Be sure to check out the retail and dining options in Cortez while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Cortez?
Mesa Verde National Park Entrance is one of the top tourist attractions in Cortez and should feature high on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Cortez?
Three days in Cortez is more than enough to visit the city's leading attractions. Many guests stay for two days on average. Cortez Cultural Center, Crow Canyon Archaeological Center and Cultural Park are among the most popular sights. Want to experience more? Hang around a while longer to visit nearby hotspots like Mesa Verde National Park.
What are some activities to do in Cortez with kids?
Whether you're traveling with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with cool activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Cortez with kids.

What to do in Cortez for adults?
From fantastic food and cultural highlights to outdoor adventures and unique experiences, there are many exciting things to do in Cortez for adults.
Are there free things to do in Cortez?
One of the easiest ways to find free things to do in Cortez is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on cool neighborhoods, parks and other hotspots you can visit without taking your wallet out. Cortez Cultural Center is one place that doesn't charge an admission fee.