Antonito ColoradoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Antonito, Colorado.
1. Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
HISTORIC MOUNTAIN RAILWAY JOURNEY
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is the main tourist draw in Antonito, offering a 64-mile vintage railroad journey through picturesque southern Colorado. This historic narrow-gauge steam railroad takes visitors on a breathtaking ride through the mountains with stunning views and rich history. The railroad has been preserved as a living museum and provides an authentic experience of 19th-century rail travel.
2. Cano's Castle
UNIQUE FOLK ART STRUCTURE
Cano's Castle is an eclectic folk-art home constructed by one of Antonito's locals, making it one of the town's most distinctive landmarks. This unique structure is built from repurposed materials including beer cans, hub caps, and other found objects. Visitors are drawn to the castle's unusual architecture and creative design that stands as a testament to outsider art.
3. Conejos County Museum & Visitors Center
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Conejos County Museum & Visitors Center provides insights into the rich cultural heritage and history of the area. Exhibits showcase artifacts and information about the Ute Indians and settlers who called the San Luis Valley home. Visitors can learn about the region's development from a small sheep herding camp to the established town it is today.
4. Roasted Dispensary And Lounge
RECREATIONAL CANNABIS DESTINATION
Roasted Dispensary And Lounge represents Antonito's embrace of Colorado's recreational marijuana culture. The establishment offers a selection of cannabis products in a comfortable setting for adults. It stands as one of the businesses that emerged during the town's recent resurgence following Colorado's legalization of recreational marijuana.
5. Double Vision Archery
BOW HUNTING SPECIALISTS
Double Vision Archery provides equipment and expertise for archery and bow hunting enthusiasts in Antonito. The facility offers practice ranges and specialized gear for both beginners and experienced archers. It serves as a resource for outdoor sports enthusiasts looking to develop their skills or prepare for hunting season.
6. Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish
COLORADO'S OLDEST CHURCH
Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, built in 1857, holds the distinction of being the oldest church and congregation in Colorado. The historic building features significant architectural elements that reflect its long history and cultural importance. Visitors can appreciate both its religious significance and its place in Colorado's heritage.
7. Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad Depot
RARE HISTORIC LAVA DEPOT
The Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad Depot in Antonito is one of the few remaining lava depots in the United States. This historic structure played a crucial role in the development of Antonito as a stop on the railroad line. Architecture and railroad enthusiasts appreciate the depot for its unique construction and historical significance.
8. Conejos River Canyon
PREMIER FISHING DESTINATION
The Conejos River Canyon stretches 40 beautiful miles near Antonito, offering excellent trout fishing and outdoor recreation. The river is known for its Rainbow and Brown Trout fishing, with occasional Northern Pike also found in its waters. Outdoor enthusiasts visit the canyon not only for fishing but also for hiking and enjoying the natural scenery.
9. Platoro Reservoir
MOUNTAIN LAKE FISHING PARADISE
Platoro Reservoir near Antonito provides wonderful fishing opportunities for Brown and Rainbow Trout as well as Kokanee Salmon. The reservoir is regularly stocked with Rainbow Trout during the summer months, ensuring good catches for anglers. Set in a picturesque mountain setting, the reservoir also offers scenic views and other recreational opportunities.
10. High Country Wilderness Excursions
BACKCOUNTRY ADVENTURE TOURS
High Country Wilderness Excursions offers guided trips into the beautiful backcountry surrounding Antonito by foot or horseback. Their services include day trips for fishing, sightseeing, wildlife watching, photo shoots, and immersive wilderness experiences. The tours provide access to remote areas that would otherwise be difficult for visitors to reach.
11. Colorado Wilderness Adventures
ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLE TOURS
Colorado Wilderness Adventures provides daily excursions into the beautiful backcountry of southern Colorado using snowmobiles or all-terrain vehicles. These guided tours allow visitors to explore remote areas that are otherwise difficult to access. Seasonal options include winter snowmobile tours and summer ATV adventures through diverse terrain.
12. Colorado Highway 17 Scenic Drive
MOUNTAIN PASS AUTUMN ROUTE
Colorado Highway 17 offers a scenic drive over Cumbres Pass and across the New Mexico border from Antonito. The route is especially popular during autumn when the changing colors create a spectacular display. Travelers appreciate the minimal traffic, allowing for a peaceful journey through the mountain landscape.
13. Rio Grande National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS RECREATION AREA
The Rio Grande National Forest near Antonito encompasses over 1.8 million acres of diverse terrain and ecosystems. Visitors can enjoy activities including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing throughout the forest. The national forest provides habitat for numerous wildlife species and contains several wilderness areas for more remote experiences.
14. Historic Downtown Antonito
CHARMING WESTERN MAIN STREET
Historic Downtown Antonito features quaint shops, restaurants, and hotels that reflect the town's authentic American charm. The area has seen revitalization with new businesses emerging following Colorado's recreational marijuana legalization and highway improvements in 2015. Visitors can experience the blend of historic architecture and modern amenities while exploring this small but vibrant downtown.
15. San Luis Valley
COLORADO'S HIDDEN VALLEY GEM
The San Luis Valley surrounding Antonito is one of Colorado's most unique geographical regions, once home to Hispanic farm families dating back to 1849. This expansive high-altitude valley offers stunning mountain views, diverse wildlife, and a rich cultural history. Visitors to the valley can experience everything from agricultural traditions to outdoor recreation against a backdrop of spectacular scenery.