On August 1st, the Centennial State will celebrate another birthday! While Colorado has only been a state since 1876 (which, compared to other states, is still pretty young), it has managed to become one of the most unique and popular, and for a good reason. To celebrate Colorado on its (as of this publication) 145th birthday, let us look at some of the biggest reasons to love the Centennial State:
1. It isn't just purple mountain Majesties...
While our mountains are a must-see (and are probably the most famous part of the state), Colorado is home to several other diverse landscapes, including the plains, dessert, and plateaus.
2. ...Our cities are pretty grand, too!
Have you ever seen a city as beautiful as Denver or Colorado Springs? Neither have we!
3. Even if we lose the game (and we probably will), Coloradans have proven to be the most loyal bunch there is.
Did you strike out, Charlie? It's okay... we forgive you! Slippery fingers, Von Miller? We will still cheer on our Broncos! Did you get kicked out of the finals, Jokic? It's okay, we forgive you. Win or lose, we are Colorado sports fans through and through.
4. We get to enjoy the Four Seasons.
No, we don't mean Frankie Valli, but rather the fact that Coloradans get to enjoy summer, fall, winter, AND spring (vs. some neighboring states who have summer year-round).
5. Speaking of seasons, no matter the temperature, there is something for you to enjoy outdoors.
Is it the cold of winter? Then it is time to break out the skis and snowboard! Spring? You will want to take a stunning hike through a trail of wildflowers. Summer? There is no better place to cool off than one of our many all-natural swimming holes. Last but certainly not least, there is no better time than mid-fall to drive around and enjoy the state's many vibrant colors.
6. Coloradans are diverse and respectful.
The Centennial State is a melting pot of different ideas, cultures, and backgrounds, which is made even better by the fact that most will celebrate their neighbors' unique traits.
7. You can literally find something new to do every weekend!
From special events and festivals to trying out a new restaurant or shop to exploring a new park, you will never find yourself bored in Colorado.
8. Two words: green chile.
You haven't lived until you have had Colorado green chile in a bowl, smothered on a burrito, over your eggs, or on top of ice cream (we won't judge - it really is that good). Who makes your favorite of this iconic dish?
9. It isn't just our green chile that is delicious.
Did you know that Colorado is home to the melon capital of the world (Rocky Ford)? Or that our beer scene is one of the best in the country? Or that people from around the world pay top dollar to have Palisade peaches shipped to their homes? Now you do!
10. Our state park is the best state park!
(If you don't get the reference, you are supposed to sing the above to the tune of "Our State Fair" from the musical, Oklahoma.) Colorado is home to 42 stellar state parks, including Steamboat Lake, Castlewood Canyon, and Golden Gate Canyon (pictured).
11. We dig dinos...
Picketwire Canyon. Dinosaur National Monument. Dinosaur Ridge. If you love the prehistoric, you are guaranteed to love the many places around Colorado that house dino bones, tracks, and other various artifacts.
12. ...And archaeology in general.
After the dinosaurs and before the European settlers, there were the Native Americans who were the first to inhabit the Centennial State. To see how these people - including the Ancient Puebloans - lived, be sure to check out such archaeological sites as Mesa Verde, Canyon of the Ancients, and Manitou Cliff Dwellings (pictured).
13. Colorado wine country ≥ Napa.
If you know, you know; Western Colorado is chock-full of beautiful AND delicious wineries, all of which are comparable (if not significantly better) than that of California Wine Country.
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