Leadville Colorado: A Guide for Visitors

Leadville, Colorado is the highest city in North America. It sits at 10,200 feet.

Leadville, founded by silver-miners in 1878, is a town that has a rich history. It was once a bustling boomtown, with colorful characters. They left behind charming Victorian houses and a wild spirit of the frontier. Leadville combines its rugged past and a love for the outdoors to create a modern, cosmopolitan city. small-town vibes Enjoy the thrill of big-mountain adventures.

“Leadville doesn’t have a keychain-type of atmosphere.” We are not here just to sell you a souvenir before heading off somewhere else. Adam DucharmeTourism and Economic Development Director for Lake County, Colorado. “Our history is rich, our grit is evident, and our charm doesn’t just look good.”

Mount Elbert, Mount Massive and the Mineral Belt Trail are all within easy reach of Leadville. The Mineral Belt Trail is a great place to hike, bike, and paddle at Twin Lakes. Ski CooperAll within minutes. The town has a vibrant arts scene and hosts annual festivals. It’s a friendly community with warm people.

A visit to Leadville will make you reconsider Leadville as an overnight stop. Ducharme says, “It’s a place that Colorado’s stories of the high-country echo in its old building.”

What you should know about Leadville before planning your trip.

What to Do in Best Things to See

Mineral Belt Trail

This 11.6 mile loop around Leadville will delight walkers, cyclists and runners. The Mineral Belt Trail The route follows old railroad tracks and mining routes, passing historical sites, rivers and wetlands. The fall is also a great time to visit. golden aspens and cottonwoods The path is lined with trees, so it’s a great choice for those who want to enjoy the autumn colors. Multiple access points allow you to enjoy the loop at your own pace or do it all.

Tabor Opera House

Built by Horace Tabor (1879), a mining tycoon, the Tabor Opera House This Victorian landmark is located in downtown and still hosts community events, live performances, and concerts. Ornate balconies and crystal chandeliers make it feel like you’re stepping back in time. They offer a glimpse of Leadville’s mining era. The architecture is enough to make a trip worthwhile, even if you do not catch a performance.

Silver Dollar Saloon

It is important to note that the word “you” means “you”. Silver Dollar SaloonThe grand mahogany bar at, which opened in 1879 is another historical spot that’s seen it all. From boomtown miners, to legends like Doc Holliday, this place has seen and done it all. Even today, the old-world décor and frontier character are still very much alive, making it feel like you’re sipping a drink in the Wild West. The Saloon is a restaurant as well as an event space, which hosts weddings, parties, and late-night fun. 

Leadville Railroad

While in town, you should not miss the opportunity to ride the Leadville Railroad Enjoy a scenic tour of the mining areas and high-country valleys around the San Isabel National Forest. The train is open all year and provides views of rugged mountains. alpine meadowsDucharme recommends taking the scenic ride in autumn when golden aspens frame the area’s 14,000-foot peaks. Ducharme recommends the scenic ride to be taken in the autumn when the golden aspens frame the 14,000 foot peaks. On the journey, guides will share fascinating stories about mining, wildlife and the landscape. It’s a relaxing experience. The food and beverage vehicle is available as are open-air seats.

Turquoise Lake

You can also find out more about this by clicking here. alpine lake The town of Elbert is the perfect place for outdoor relaxation. You can picnic, hike, rent kayaks or canoes, fish for trout and even rent a boat. In the fall, the lake is framed by golden aspen groves—a photographer’s dream. 

National Mining Hall of Fame & Museum

Downtown, the National Mining Hall of Fame & Museum The exhibits cover the mining culture, pioneers, Indigenous history and period photos from the area. It is educational and entertaining for adults as well as children.

Where to Eat and drink

Treeline Kitchen 

Local, sustainable ingredients are the focus of this recipe. Treeline Kitchen Since 2017, has been offering American classics in a new way. Menu items include blackened fish, vegetable curries, and salads. Above Treeline claims to have “America’s most elevated rooftop bar” and is a great place to enjoy a drink or two after dinner. The restaurant is open seasonally, from May to Septembre. It offers food and drinks that offer panoramic views of the mountains. 

Buchi Café Cubano

Buchi Café Cubano This casual Cuban restaurant is located in the heart the Rockies. This cozy cafe is known for its Cuban coffees, sandwiches and cocktails. During the warmer months, patio dining is available with a view of downtown—locals love to hang out in the café’s cozy interiors in the winter.

Mineral 1886

Mineral 1886The historic building is located within the historic Delaware HotelBreakfast and brunch are served at. This place combines an old-world charm, with a modern culinary flair. Breakfast classics such as omelets and pancakes are available on the menu, along with French toast and chicken and waffles. Its elegant, cozy setting is perfect for a relaxed breakfast. Dinners are served on certain evenings.

The Famous

The Famous The casual eatery in Leadville opposite the opera is known for its wood fired pizzas, salads and sandwiches. It is located in the historic building that was once home to Leadville’s famous shoe company. The bar and restaurant blends local history, with a vibrant, modern atmosphere.

Tennessee Pass Cookhouse

This unique property is located in the Ski Cooper area. backcountry dining experience. The guests must hike, ski or snowshoe a mile in order to reach the cozy yurt where they are treated to a multi-course gourmet meal with Colorado specialties such as elk and lamb. In winter, the stunning mountain scenery is magical, but it’s also enchanting in summer when wildflowers are abundant and there are beautiful views of the alpine mountains. Ducharme: “I can say from personal experience that this dinner cemented my love for Leadville.”

Where to Stay

The Majestic

The house is an elegant Victorian mansion dating back to 1880. The Majestic This cozy, charming, and intimate hotel is full of personality. Five rooms make this feel more like an intimate mountain retreat rather than a hotel. With a fire in the outdoor fire pit, you can enjoy stunning views of Sawatch Range. You can walk to nearby restaurants and art galleries.

The Timberline

Stay in a comfortable, modern hotel right downtown. The Timberline has 16 stylish rooms, including larger options with kitchenettes—ideal for families or big groups. This hotel is ideal for both weekend getaways and long-term stays. It features a clean minimalist design, as well as a convenient location near shops, cafes, and restaurants. 

The Historic Delaware Hotel

This colorful, quirky hotel features antique furnishings, wood floors, and quirky quirks. Historic Delaware Hotel The hotel is full of old-world charm that evokes Leadville’s golden boom days. The hotel has been recently renovated and combines nostalgia from yesteryear with modern comforts. It’s a great choice for history enthusiasts or anyone looking to experience Leadville.

Lumberyard

Leadville’s trendiest and newest places to stay. The Lumberyard Reimagines an historic lumberyard into a sleek and modern accommodation space. Each of the 13 rooms is bright, comfortable and thoughtfully decorated. This cabin is located right next to Leadville’s train depot.