World Traveler

Ouray, Colorado is a relatively unknown destination for astute adventure and international travelers. The small town itself is picturesquely nestled among some of the most impressive and beautiful peaks in Southwest Colorado. Set in a small valley and surrounded on three sides by the towering mountains of the San Juan range, Ouray is locally referred to as the ‘Switzerland of America.’ In addition, the majority of the small town’s unique Victorian businesses and hotels have been lovingly restored to their original glory. An incredibly peaceful and relaxing atmosphere dominates the town. The friendly locals, unique landscape, and spectacular Victorian architecture make this a stellar travel destination.

Dining
Despite it’s quaint size, Ouray offers an amazing variety of small cafes and restaurants. Whether you’re after a relaxed atmosphere or a formal experience, or a Southwest-inspired menu or a French flair, you’ll find a local restaurant to satisfy your desires. The Bon Ton Restaurant is one of the local favorites for an upscale atmosphere. The Bon Ton serves continental cuisine with an Italian flair–the menu has everything from prime rib to ravioli. The dining room is located in the bottom of the elegant St. Elmo hotel and is open year-round with an excellent Sunday brunch.

For a more relaxed atmosphere, the Buen Tiempo Mexican Restaurant and Cantina is a worthy choice. Serving an enormous menu of Mexican and Southwestern fare, the Buen Tiempo is clean and comfortable inside; the patio outside overlooks Main Street and is inviting and filled with flowers throughout much of the year. The Coachlight is another of our favorite dinner destinations. Although the dining room has slightly unpredictable hours (it’s only open intermittently throughout the summer months), the tasty salads and old-West atmosphere make it a great dinner place for families.

Shopping
Shopping in Ouray is even better than the dining selections! The small town is home to an incredible number of outstanding and well-known artists of many different mediums, from wood craftsman to painters. Inspired by the breathtaking scenery, these resident artisans are constantly creating one-of-a-kind creations that fill the local galleries. Many local galleries hold regular workshops and classes by artists that are well worth the time. In addition, the small unique boutiques and gift shops that line Main Street have interesting and exclusive high-quality items not typically found in tourist destinations.

North Moon Gallery, located in the dramatically restored Beaumont Hotel, features some of the most unique art in all of Colorado. The small shop has fine art of all kinds, including a diverse collection of jewelry, locally inspired paintings, and gorgeous landscape photography. Red Moutain Gallery and Studio is another excellent gallery; the small business manages to host tours and maintain gardens outside. Open in the fall months, Red Mountain is by appointment only. Finally, San Juan Pottery is another local gallery worth a peek–located one story about Main Street, San Juan is somewhat difficult to locate. They carry an enormous collection from most of Colorado’s most renowned potters.

The shops in Ouray as equally as classy and memorable as the galleries. Travelers can easily purchase all their Christmas and holiday gifts on one trips, as well as acquire stunning Native American art, unique jewelry, and craft masterpieces for themselves. Duckett’s is a good shop to begin your stay in Ouray. Duckett’s is an old-fashioned, tiny family-owned and operated grocery store. The have excellent meat and vegetables all the time, and the staff is fun to talk to. Buckskin Booksellers carries all types of literature, but specializes in Western books and gift items. The Ouray V&S Variety is open seven days a week and year-round; the small old-fashioned store carries most everything you could ever need: food, drinks, snacks, sunscreen, film, cameras, games, clothing, shoes, etc. Every time we visit, we’re amazed how many different items are crammed into such a small storefront. Ouray Toys is open year round, and is fun for adults and kids; they have thousands of high-quality and unique games, toys, dolls, activities, puzzles, and books. Finally, Schalla Jeweler of Ouray is worth a visit. They create custom silver and gold jewelry with gemstones and diamonds. Many of their creations are inspired by the peaks surrounding the town.