Just over a century ago, the railroad opened the San Luis Valley to the rest of the world by laying track across its borders. Today, the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad whisks passengers off to remote parts of the San Luis Valley, and those just beyond those borders, still wild and unspoiled by the last 100 years.

Alamosa County is one of six counties in south-central Colorado's San Luis Valley. Surrounded by stunning 14,000-foot peaks, more than 50,000 residents share the love of clear blue skies, outdoor recreation, and unparalleled vistas.

Round Mountain Institute, Inc. was founded in 2002. A decade earlier the land at the base of Round Mountain began its transformation into an ecologically friendly farm. Through the years over a thousand people have toured the ever-changing landscape. It all began with a yurt, then the first straw bale house in Gunnison County and finally with a partially straw bale solar greenhouse. The past 12 years have seen the gardens grow to over 2-acres of ecologically cultivated vegetables, flowers and herbs. Without the overwhelming community support for Round Mountain Institute it never could have materialized into what was once just a vision. The vision was inspired by seeing the toxic agri-business of America polluting the environment and the simple non-toxic farming methods of Nepali villagers sustaining themselves in rhythm with the Earth.

Taylor Park Marina is located about three and a half hours from Denver, Colorado, and sits on the southern edge of Taylor Park Reservoir. The light, crisp air and blue sky are rivaled in beauty only by the sight of the surrounding Sawatch mountain range. Fishing boats and pontoons are available to rent and fishing equipment is for sale, as are beverages and snacks.

Majestic View Nature Center and Community Park is a place to learn about, understand, and appreciate the area's natural features and cultural history by interacting directly with nature! The 3,000 square foot Nature Center features hands-on nature and environmental displays, wildlife exhibits, a kid's area, classrooms and meeting space.

Two Ponds National Wildlife Refuge's mission is to protect and enhance urban wildlife and habitat and to provide opportunities for environmental education. This urban Refuge is committed to providing a sanctuary of wildlife for all to enjoy.

This complex originally had four baseball fields and four football fields. Finally, The Sports Complex given a name at the 25th anniversary celebration of the North Jeffco District in 1981. It was named for Harold D. Lutz, the attorney who organized North Jeffco Recreation and Park District in 1956, and continued as the District's attorney until 1994. Additions to the Sports Complex following the name change were: Purchase of 13 acres to the East from Stan Lassak et al in 1993; a batting cage; more football and baseball fields; and elaborate firework displays on the fourth of July which can be seen for miles around.

The D-Note in historic Arvada features an affordable menu, live entertainment and a stage for dancing.

Arvada Elks Lodge is host to various live music acts.

Colorado's own natural foods grocer, specializing in "serious food ...silly prices".