• What does the name "Buena Vista" mean?
    • Buena Vista is Spanish for "good view", which perfectly describes the town’s stunning scenery.
  • Where is Buena Vista located?
    • The town is nestled at the base of the Continental Divide, offering breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains.
  • What makes Buena Vista a great destination?
    • Buena Vista boasts a number of peaks soaring over 14,000 feet above sea level, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy in Buena Vista?
    • Buena Vista is considered the American capital of whitewater rafting.
    • Other popular activities include hiking, mountain biking, and fishing.
  • Will visitors enjoy their time in Buena Vista?
    • Absolutely! Most visitors leave feeling amazed by the town’s natural beauty and outdoor adventures.

Things to Do:

1. Browns Canyon National Monument

Browns Canyon National Monument
© Courtesy of cbdusty - Fotolia.com

2. Buena Vista Heritage Museum

Buena Vista Heritage Museum
© Courtesy of Shelley - Fotolia.com

3. Buena Vista Whitewater Park

Buena Vista Whitewater Park
© Courtesy of sportstock - Fotolia.com

4. Collegiate Peaks Scenic and Historic Byway

Collegiate Peaks Scenic and Historic Byway
© Courtesy of robert cicchetti - Fotolia.com

5. Cottonwood Hot Springs

Cottonwood Hot Springs
© Cottonwood Hot Springs

6. House Rock Kitchen

House Rock Kitchen
© House Rock Kitchen

7. Jumpin' Good Goat Dairy

Jumpin' Good Goat Dairy
© Jumpin' Good Goat Dairy

8. Mount Princeton Hot Springs

Mount Princeton Hot Springs
© Mount Princeton Hot Springs

9. Noah's Ark Colorado Rafting & Aerial Adventure Park

Noah's Ark Colorado Rafting & Aerial Adventure Park
© Courtesy of sportstock - Fotolia.com

10. St. Elmo Ghost Town

St. Elmo Ghost Town
© Courtesy of teesixb - Fotolia.com

11. The Trailhead

The Trailhead
© The Trailhead

12. Buena Vista Roastery Cafe

Buena Vista Roastery Cafe
© Buena Vista Roastery Cafe

13. ArkAnglers

ArkAnglers
© Courtesy of Piotr Wawrzyniuk - Fotolia.com

14. Eddyline Brewery and Taproom

Eddyline Brewery and Taproom
© Eddyline Brewery and Taproom

15. Stedman’s Sweet Shop

Stedman’s Sweet Shop
© Stedman’s Sweet Shop

Map:



Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Surf Hotel & Chateau – A boutique riverside hotel with elegant charm. Visit Cottonwood Hot Springs – Relax in natural geothermal pools with scenic views.
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather, perfect for outdoor adventures. Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort – A luxurious mountain retreat with hot springs. Go whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River – Experience thrilling rapids and beautiful canyon scenery.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and breathtaking fall foliage. Buena Vista Riverside Lodge – A cozy stay near hiking trails and nature. Hike at the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness – Enjoy stunning autumn colors and mountain views.

Plan Your Trip