Alamosa is an incredible small town located in the heart of a San Luis Valley in Southern Colorado. Alamosa is known for its unique experiences and endless outdoor adventures. Take your chance at spotting a UFO or watch the night stars under some of the darkest skies around.
Colorado Pacific Rio Grande Railroad
Enjoy a historic downtown walking tour and check out the historic train station and welcome center. There are exhibits on Native American, Hispanic, and Japanese cultural heritage, which offer deep context for how Alamosa was founded on the railroad and shaped by multicultural communities.
See MoreAlamosa National Wildlife Refuge and Visitor Center
This 11,000-acre refuge along the Rio Grande is a haven for migratory birds, waterfowl, and other wildlife, offering peaceful trails and scenic drives through wet meadows and riparian habitats. The visitor center provides seasonal information, and the diverse landscapes make it ideal for birdwatching, photography, and hiking.
See MoreColorado Gators Reptile Park
Just north of Alamosa, this 80-acre reptile park, which began as a tilapia farm, now features alligators, exotic reptiles, and bird species in a geothermal habitat. Visitors can see reptiles up close, learn about wildlife conservation, and enjoy outdoor areas for picnicking and birdwatching.
See MoreCalvillo's Mexican Restaurant, Buffet, and Bar
Calvillo’s offers authentic Mexican cuisine, a buffet, and a full bar in a friendly, family-oriented setting. Known for flavorful fajitas, tacos, and classic dishes, it’s a go-to spot for hearty, satisfying meals in Alamosa.
See MoreSan Luis Valley Brewing Company
This local brewpub and restaurant serves handcrafted beers and casual fare in downtown Alamosa, making it a relaxed stop for lunch or dinner. It’s a popular spot for both visitors and locals looking to sample regional brews and comfort food after a day of exploring.
See MoreGreat Sand Dunes Visitor Center
Great Sand Dunes National Park is full of outdoor fun, from hiking and sledding on the tallest dunes in North America to driving up the mountain access roads, or hiking one of the many trails within the park. There is more than plenty to discover. Once the sun sets, the show starts, and the stars and galaxies will have never felt as close as they do in that moment!
See MoreZapata Falls
Zapata Falls is a scenic 30-foot waterfall tucked near the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains on Bureau of Land Management land. A short, mildly steep hike leads to the falls, where cool water cascades through a narrow rock chute — a refreshing natural highlight near Great Sand Dunes National Park.
See MoreUFO Watchtower
This quirky roadside attraction in the San Luis Valley invites visitors to climb its observation platform and scan the night sky for UFOs and unexplained phenomena. Set in a remote high-desert area with minimal light pollution, the site also offers camping, a gift shop, and alien-themed art, making it a truly unique stop.
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