Romeo ColoradoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Romeo, Colorado.
1. Jack Dempsey Museum
BOXING LEGEND'S LEGACY
The Jack Dempsey Museum celebrates the life and career of the famous heavyweight boxing champion who was known as the 'Manassa Mauler'. Visitors can explore memorabilia, photographs, and artifacts that document Dempsey's rise to fame from his humble beginnings in Colorado to becoming world champion. The museum provides an intimate look at one of boxing's most legendary figures and his impact on the sport's history.
2. Our Lady Of Guadalupe Catholic Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS SITE
Our Lady Of Guadalupe Catholic Church stands as a spiritual landmark in the small town of Romeo. The church serves as both a religious center and a historical building that reflects the area's strong Hispanic Catholic heritage. Visitors appreciate the church's peaceful atmosphere and traditional architecture that has served the local community for generations.
3. Cano's Castle
UNIQUE FOLK ART STRUCTURE
Cano's Castle is an eccentric folk art structure built entirely from aluminum cans, hubcaps, and other recycled materials by local artist Dominic Espinoza. This four-tower complex shimmers in the sunlight and stands as a testament to one man's creative vision and resourcefulness. The castle has become a quirky roadside attraction that draws curious visitors looking to experience unusual architectural art in southern Colorado.
4. Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
HISTORIC MOUNTAIN RAILWAY
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is America's highest and longest narrow gauge steam railroad, operating between Antonito, Colorado and Chama, New Mexico. Passengers journey through spectacular mountain scenery on historic steam locomotives that have been in operation since the late 1800s. This National Historic Landmark offers an authentic railroad experience that takes visitors through remote wilderness areas inaccessible by highway.
5. San Luis Valley
AGRICULTURAL HIGH-ALTITUDE BASIN
The San Luis Valley is a vast high-altitude basin in south-central Colorado where Romeo is situated. Known for its agricultural productivity, the valley is surrounded by mountain ranges and contains unique ecological features including the Great Sand Dunes National Park. Visitors to the valley can experience incredible stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution and explore numerous outdoor recreational activities in this diverse landscape.
6. Colorado Gators Reptile Park
UNIQUE DESERT REPTILE SANCTUARY
Colorado Gators Reptile Park began as a tilapia fish farm that used geothermal waters and later added alligators to dispose of fish waste. Today, the park houses hundreds of alligators and other rescued reptiles including snakes, tortoises, and lizards. Visitors can participate in the 'Gator Aid' program where they help wrangle and care for sick or injured alligators, making this a hands-on educational experience unlike any other in the region.
7. Great Sand Dunes National Park
TALLEST DUNES IN AMERICA
Great Sand Dunes National Park features the tallest sand dunes in North America, with some reaching heights of over 750 feet. The dunes were formed by sand deposits from the Rio Grande and its tributaries, which were then shaped by the prevailing winds coming off the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Visitors can hike the dunes, sled down them on special boards, or splash in seasonal Medano Creek that flows at the base of the dune field during spring months.
8. Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge
WETLAND BIRD SANCTUARY
Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge encompasses over 12,000 acres of wetlands and riparian areas along the Rio Grande River. The refuge serves as critical habitat for migratory birds, including sandhill cranes, and hosts numerous species of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Visitors can explore the auto tour route, hiking trails, and observation platforms to witness seasonal wildlife migrations and the diverse ecosystem of the San Luis Valley.
9. Zapata Falls
HIDDEN MOUNTAIN WATERFALL
Zapata Falls is a 30-foot waterfall tucked within a rocky crevasse on the eastern edge of the San Luis Valley. The falls can be accessed via a moderate half-mile hike from the trailhead, culminating in a wade through the creek to view the cascading water. During winter months, the falls freeze into an impressive ice sculpture, offering visitors two completely different natural spectacles depending on the season.
10. Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge
SANDHILL CRANE VIEWING
Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge provides crucial wetland habitat for thousands of sandhill cranes during their spring and fall migrations. The refuge hosts an annual Crane Festival in March, drawing wildlife enthusiasts from across the country to witness the spectacular gathering of these majestic birds. Visitors can explore the auto tour route and observation areas to view not only cranes but also waterfowl, songbirds, and other wildlife that thrive in this protected environment.
11. San Luis Valley Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
San Luis Valley Brewing Company offers handcrafted beers in a historic building in downtown Alamosa. The brewery features a rotating selection of craft beers that often incorporate local ingredients and draw inspiration from the unique character of the valley. Visitors can enjoy the rustic taproom atmosphere while sampling flights of beer paired with a menu of pub fare that highlights regional flavors.
12. San Luis Valley Museum
REGIONAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The San Luis Valley Museum preserves the rich cultural history of this unique region through exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and documents. The collection spans from Native American prehistory through Hispanic settlement, pioneer life, and the development of agriculture and railroads in the valley. Visitors gain insight into the diverse cultural influences that have shaped this high-altitude valley and the resilient communities that have called it home.
13. Rio Grande Scenic Railroad
MOUNTAIN RAIL ADVENTURES
The Rio Grande Scenic Railroad offers vintage train excursions through the stunning landscapes of the San Luis Valley and over La Veta Pass. Passengers travel in restored rail cars pulled by both diesel and steam locomotives while enjoying views inaccessible by car. The railroad also hosts special themed rides including concert trains that bring passengers to a mountaintop amphitheater for unique musical experiences surrounded by alpine scenery.
14. Luther Bean Museum
SOUTHWEST CULTURAL HERITAGE
The Luther Bean Museum located at Adams State University houses an impressive collection of Native American and Hispanic arts, artifacts, and historical items from the San Luis Valley. The museum's exhibits include rare Navajo textiles, pottery, and historical photographs that document the region's diverse cultural heritage. Visitors appreciate the museum's intimate setting that provides a comprehensive overview of Southwestern art and the influences that have shaped the cultural landscape of southern Colorado.
15. Colorado Alligator Farm
UNEXPECTED DESERT REPTILES
The Colorado Alligator Farm is a surprising attraction in the high desert where visitors can observe over 400 alligators thriving in naturally heated geothermal waters. This unique sanctuary also houses exotic birds, tortoises, and other reptiles, many of which have been rescued from inadequate homes or challenging situations. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about these fascinating creatures and even participate in hands-on experiences with some of the resident reptiles.