The beauty of a Colorado vacation is that there's truly something for everyone. Depending on where you choose to go, you can have an affordable and fun time, or you can spend a bit more and have a truly world-class experience. The more expensive resorts -- Vail, Aspen, Steamboat, and Telluride -- tend to fill up quickly, especially during ski season (and even more so the holiday week of Dec 25-Jan 1); you'll want to book as far in advance as possible. The same is true for the state's most popular attractions, such as the national parks -- which are especially busy over school vacations. This chapter gives you the information you need to get started.

Destination: Colorado -- Predeparture Checklist

  • Are there any special requirements for your destination? Vaccinations? Special visas, passports, or IDs? Detailed road maps? Bug repellents? Appropriate attire? If you're flying, are you carrying a current, government-issued ID, such as a driver's license or passport?

  • Did you find out your daily ATM withdrawal limit?

  • Do you have your credit card PIN numbers? If you have a five- or six-digit PIN number, did you obtain a four-digit number from your bank?

  • To check in at a kiosk with an e-ticket, do you have the credit card you bought your ticket with or a frequent-flier card?

  • If you purchased traveler's checks, have you recorded the check numbers and stored the documentation separately from the checks?

  • Did you bring your ID cards that could entitle you to discounts, such as AAA and AARP cards and student IDs?

  • Did you leave a copy of your itinerary with someone at home?

  • Do any theater, restaurant, or travel reservations need to be booked in advance?

  • Some attractions (such as the top of the dome in the Colorado State Capitol in Denver, and the U.S. Air Force Academy and Peterson Air & Space Museum in Colorado Springs) have been closed for security reasons or have reopened with special restrictions. Call ahead for specifics.

  • If you want to attend a Denver Broncos game, call early -- home games sell out months ahead.

  • Make lodging arrangements far in advance for the resort towns during ski season.

  • Savings are often available by buying lift tickets before departure either by phone or on the resort's website. For those who are planning to ski 10 or more days, there are plenty of different season passes to shop and compare.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.