Costilla County Colorado Map
Costilla County in Colorado is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Located in the southern part of the state, this county is home to stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and a plethora of outdoor activities. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, Costilla County has something for everyone.
Top Attractions
One of the most popular attractions in Costilla County is the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. This park is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America, which offer a unique and breathtaking sight. Visitors can hike, sandboard, or simply enjoy the stunning views.
The San Luis Valley Museum in Alamosa is another must-visit attraction that showcases the rich cultural history of the area. The museum features exhibits on the Native American tribes, Spanish settlers, and early pioneers who shaped the region.
Hidden Gems
For those who love off-the-beaten-path experiences, a visit to the UFO Watchtower in Hooper is a must. This unique attraction is a hotspot for UFO sightings and offers visitors a chance to learn about the history of the area’s extraterrestrial sightings.
Another hidden gem is the Colorado Gators Reptile Park, located in Mosca. This park is home to alligators, crocodiles, and other exotic animals and offers visitors a chance to get up close and personal with these fascinating creatures.
Food Scene
Costilla County has a diverse and delicious food scene that offers something for everyone. For a taste of Mexican cuisine, head to Calvillo’s Mexican Restaurant in San Luis. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up authentic Mexican dishes for over 30 years.
The San Luis Valley Brewing Company in Alamosa is a popular spot for craft beer enthusiasts. This brewery offers a range of locally brewed beers and a cozy atmosphere to enjoy them in.
Budget-Friendly Tips
One of the best ways to save money when visiting Costilla County is to camp. There are several campgrounds in the area that offer affordable rates and stunning views. The San Luis State Park in Mosca is a popular spot for camping and offers a range of amenities.
Another budget-friendly option is to explore the area’s natural beauty. There are several hiking trails in the county that offer breathtaking views and are completely free to explore.
Outdoor Adventures
Costilla County is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and offers a range of activities, including hiking, fishing, and skiing. The Zapata Falls Trail is a popular hiking trail that leads to a stunning waterfall and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
The Rio Grande River runs through the county and is a popular spot for fishing. Visitors can catch trout, bass, and other fish in the river’s clear waters.
Historical Landmarks
Costilla County is rich in history and is home to several historical landmarks. The Fort Garland Museum and Cultural Center is a must-visit attraction that showcases the history of the area’s military fort and the Buffalo Soldiers who served there.
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is another historical landmark that offers visitors a chance to travel back in time. This narrow-gauge steam train takes visitors on a journey through the stunning San Juan Mountains and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
Family-Friendly Activities
Costilla County is a great destination for families, with several activities that are fun for all ages. The Colorado Gators Reptile Park is a popular spot for families, with hands-on experiences and educational opportunities.
The Joyful Journey Hot Springs Spa in Moffat is another family-friendly attraction that offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience for all. The hot springs are naturally heated and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
For those looking for unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences, a visit to the UFO Watchtower in Hooper is a must. This unique attraction is a hotspot for UFO sightings and offers visitors a chance to learn about the history of the area’s extraterrestrial sightings.
The Colorado Gators Reptile Park is another off-the-beaten-path experience that offers visitors a chance to get up close and personal with exotic animals.
Natural Wonders
Costilla County is home to several natural wonders that are worth exploring. The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is a must-visit attraction that offers stunning views of the tallest sand dunes in North America.
The Rio Grande National Forest is another natural wonder that offers a range of activities, including hiking, camping, and fishing. The forest is home to several stunning waterfalls and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Vibrant Nightlife
Costilla County may be a small county, but it still has a vibrant nightlife scene. The San Luis Valley Brewing Company in Alamosa is a popular spot for craft beer enthusiasts, with a cozy atmosphere and live music on weekends.
The Purple Pig Cafe in San Luis is another hotspot for nightlife, with a range of cocktails and live music performances.
Local Markets
Costilla County has several local markets that offer a range of fresh produce and handmade goods. The Alamosa Farmers Market is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, with a range of fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, and artisanal crafts.
The San Luis Valley Local Foods Coalition is another local market that offers a range of locally sourced produce and goods.
Beaches and Mountains
Costilla County may not be located on the coast, but it still has several stunning beaches to explore. The San Luis Lakes State Park in Mosca is a popular spot for beachgoers, with a range of water activities and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
The county is also home to several stunning mountain ranges, including the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the San Juan Mountains. These mountains offer a range of activities, including hiking, skiing, and camping.
Cultural Immersion
Costilla County has a rich cultural history that is worth exploring. The San Luis Valley Museum in Alamosa is a must-visit attraction that showcases the history of the area’s Native American tribes, Spanish settlers, and early pioneers.
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is another cultural immersion experience that offers visitors a chance to travel back in time and learn about the history of the area’s railroad.
Art and Music Scene
Costilla County has a vibrant art and music scene that is worth exploring. The SteamPlant Event Center in Salida is a popular spot for live music performances and art exhibitions.
The San Luis Valley Symphony in Alamosa is another must-visit attraction for music lovers, with a range of classical music performances throughout the year.
Walking Tours
Costilla County has several walking tours that offer a unique and immersive experience. The Historic Downtown Alamosa Walking Tour is a popular option that showcases the history and architecture of the city’s downtown area.
The San Luis Walking Tour is another must-visit attraction that takes visitors on a journey through the history of the area’s Spanish settlers.
Architectural Marvels
Costilla County is home to several architectural marvels that are worth exploring. The Fort Garland Museum and Cultural Center is a must-visit attraction that showcases the history of the area’s military fort and the Buffalo Soldiers who served there.
The Colorado Gators Reptile Park is another architectural marvel that features a range of unique and exotic buildings.
Historical Sites
Costilla County is rich in history and is home to several historical sites. The San Luis Valley Museum in Alamosa is a must-visit attraction that showcases the history of the area’s Native American tribes, Spanish settlers, and early pioneers.
The Fort Garland Museum and Cultural Center is another must-visit attraction that showcases the history of the area’s military fort and the Buffalo Soldiers who served there.
Biking Routes
Costilla County has several biking routes that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is a popular spot for biking, with several trails that offer stunning views of the sand dunes.
The Rio Grande River Trail is another popular biking route that takes visitors on a journey through the stunning San Luis Valley.
Wellness Retreats
Costilla County is a great destination for wellness retreats, with several hot springs and spas to choose from. The Joyful Journey Hot Springs Spa in Moffat is a popular spot for relaxation and rejuvenation, with naturally heated hot springs and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
The Valley View Hot Springs in Villa Grove is another must-visit attraction for wellness enthusiasts, with a range of hot springs and a peaceful and secluded atmosphere.
Adventure Sports
Costilla County is a haven for adventure sports enthusiasts, with several activities to choose from. The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is a popular spot for sandboarding, with several rentals available in