Alamosa

The Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge is one of three designated refuges in the San Luis Valley. The 11,169 acre refuge provides food, dwelling, and breeding grounds for a number of resident and migratory wildlife and birds. The refuge comprises an array of natural settings such as dry uplands, wet meadows, and riparian corridors. You can spend your time there observing the natural wonders of your surrounding by walking or biking through the nature trail, driving the auto-tour route, or hiking up to the Bluff Overlook. Popular activities include photography, wildlife viewing, and restricted hunting.

Alamosa Refuge and Visitor Center: 9383 El Rancho Lane, Alamosa, CO 81101, Phone: 719-589-4021

The San Luis Valley Brewing Company is a family owned endeavor that relies on members of the community to thrive. While the Grabers concoct the finest craft brews in the area, their talented kitchen staff prepares delicious foods to accompany the drink, and the local designer creates an atmosphere that’s warm and inviting. Visit their tap room to try one of their many classic brews; some of which are on tap all year long are the Valle Especial, Valle Caliente, the Ol’ 169 Oatmeal Stout, and the Hefe Suave. There are also several collaboration beers which the brewery has created with their partners.

631 Main St, Alamosa, CO 81101, Phone: 719-587-2337

Kristi Mountain Sports is San Luis Valley’s premier location for all your outdoorsy needs. Since 1969, the popular outdoor shop has been providing visitors with everything they need for their adventure whether it be hiking, biking, rock climbing, camping, skiing, snowboarding, or sandboarding. Known in the community for providing quality service to their customers, it’s the only place anyone goes for rentals, purchases, maintenance, or repair - they can fix any make or model of bike, ski, or snowboard. Some of the items you will find at Kristi Mountain Sports include hiking boots, backpacks, sleeping bags, camp stoves, car-rack systems, bikes and accessories, and GPS/ tracking units.

3223 Main St, Alamosa, CO 81101, Phone: 719-589-9759

Firedworks is a full-service gallery and framing shop that aims to introduce the people of Alamosa to beautiful art and the inspiring artists behind them. You are sure to find a piece that speaks to you on a higher level as you walk through the rooms of the gallery. The unique works vary in style and form - they could be paintings, sculptures, jewelry, or any other form of art that the gallery owners fell in love with. There are many events held at the Firedworks Gallery throughout the year including exhibits, artists’ workshops, and more.

608 Main St, Alamosa, CO 81101, Phone: 719-589-6064

The San Luis Valley Museum is a wonderful place for visitors of all ages to learn about local history and the people and events that shaped it. You’ll be able to see many artifacts, antiques, collectibles, memorabilia, and photographs as you walk through the museum. Much of these exhibits are focused on the Native Americans that lived on this land, Hispanic settlers, early ranch and farm like, military regalia, the Japanese - American community, and early railroading. Interactive museum displays such as an old model U.S. post office and a general store let kids get hands-on as they learn in the fun environment.

401 Hunt Ave, Alamosa, CO 81101, Phone: 719-587-0667

The Rio Grande Farm Park came to be when a community group came together in search of a place for people to gather and learn about farming and the environment while trying to preserve as much green space in the community as possible. The beautiful farm park is now a wondrous place to explore and is easily accessible via a pedestrian bridge from downtown Alamosa. As you walk the trails of the park, you’ll be able to enjoy the fresh, crisp air and take in the panoramic views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The farm park also gives visitors the opportunity to go apple picking in the orchard or learn about growing crops using traditional Mayan farming techniques.

6935 CO-17, Alamosa, CO 81101, Phone: 719-937-2319

Society Hall is a community center and event venue that is used for concerts, workshops, plays, meetings, festivals, weddings, and much more. The structure was initially an old church that was set to be destroyed before a group of people, who are now board members, banded together to save it and use it as a community hub. The building itself is absolutely gorgeous, and though it retains much of its original charm, several renovations and upgrades have been made over the years. Several of the events, such as the CD release and performance of Frank Scott, are free for residents and visitors to enjoy.

400 Ross Ave, Alamosa, CO 81101, Phone: 719-937-2636

The Wet Paintbrush is the San Luis Valley’s very first sip and paint art studio. The relaxing, fun environment gives you the opportunity to express yourself with the stroke of a paintbrush as you sip on your favorite wine or beer. The best thing about it is that you don’t have to be an artist or even have painted in your life to have a really great experience. The knowledgeable artists will guide you through the painting techniques so that you can concentrate on just having a good time. All classes are held in groups at the studio and all of the supplies you need such as paints, brushes, and a canvas are provided.

1307 Main St Suite A, Alamosa, CO 81101, Phone: 719-285-7715

The Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge can be found in the San Luis Valley. It provides a necessary feeding and breeding habitat for local flora and fauna including wildlife and over 200 species of birds. Some of the wildlife you’ll come across the wetlands and uplands include unusual and rare amphibian species such as the Plains spadefoot toad and the northern leopard frog. As you explore your surroundings, you’ll be able to see stunning views of three mountain ranges - the San Juan, the Saguache, and the Sangre de Christo. Popular visitor activities in the area are hiking and viewing the interpretive panels along the way, wildlife viewing, nature photography, and restricted hunting.

6120 CO-15, Monte Vista, CO 81144, Phone: 719-589-4021