Alamosa

Head over La Veta Pass from Walsenburg and discover Alamosa and all it has to offer, from authentic local cuisine to historic train rides through the Rocky Mountains.

This city has a unique combination of attractions, most notably the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, which brings nearly half a million visitors annually. Other outdoor destinations in Alamosa include the Alamosa Wildlife Refuge, Blanca Vista Park, and Zapata Falls.

Summer is an exceptional time to be outdoors in the San Luis Valley. Take in the music, crafts and food at the Summerfest on the Rio, share the adrenaline rush at the Alamosa Round-up Rodeo, or walk downtown to the Farmers Market for fresh local produce and more. Other annual events include Januray’s Rio Frio Ice Fest and Labor Day Weekend’s Early Iron Festival Car Show.

Enjoy up-close mountain views aboard the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad or the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad and first-hand experiences with nature’s scariest reptiles at the Colorado Gators Reptile Park.

Cool Fact: The Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad brought the new town of Alamosa with it when it first reached the San Luis Valley in 1878. Nearly 100 buildings—including houses, stores, and churches—were loaded onto flatbed cars in Garland City, hauled some thirty miles into the valley, and set up along the railroad’s newest terminus.

Dig deep into Alamosa’s rich history and experience the native culture with a visit to the Luther Bean Museum in Ft. Garland or take a walking tour of historical downtown Alamosa. Drive along the Los Caminos Antiguos Scenic Byway for panoramic views of the vast San Luis Valley from scenic vistas.

Alamosa proudly offers over 35 restaurants, ranging from authentic Mexican and Thai cuisine to American cooking. Need a place to stay?  There are many lodging options in and around Alamosa, ranging from chain motels, locally owned properties and both public and commercial campgrounds.