By Brandon Robinson
A dream destination awaits in the charming mountain town of Florissant, CO.
If you’re a nature lover in search of a retreat that offers both serenity and adventure, Florissant is for you!
Nestled in Teller County, Colorado, in the Rocky Mountains, Florissant is about 45 minutes west of
Colorado Springs on Highway 24.
While Florissant may be small in size, its reputation is huge in impact. It is most notably known as being home to the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument which features some of the most impressive fossils in the United States.
For a vacation, Florissant is close enough to bigger cities to enjoy larger attractions, and for a serene getaway, it’s the perfect cozy mountain stay.
Experience the highlights and attractions of Florissant by following our travel guide to explore this new hotspot for a Colorado vacation.
About Florissant, CO
Florissant, CO, has a rich history that dates back to 1870 when it was established as a farming and ranching community.
The area's fertile land attracted settlers, and the town began to grow around the agricultural industry. In the early 1900s, the discovery of nearby fossil beds brought attention to the region, leading to the establishment of the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument in 1969, which preserved its significant paleontological sites.
The town has connections to the mining boom in nearby Cripple Creek as well, with early residents participating in the gold rush. Today, Florissant retains its historical charm showcasing its well-preserved history and serves as a gateway to the beautiful surrounding mountains.
“Florissant” means “Flourishing”
The term "Florissant" comes from the French word "florissant," which means "flourishing" or "blossoming."
The name reflects the area's natural beauty and abundant wildflowers, which were likely appreciated by early settlers and explorers. The name was adopted when the town was established in the late 19th century, highlighting its picturesque landscape and vibrant environment.
Opulence has the perfect vacation rental for your mountain stay, the Crazy Horn Chalet: A Scenic Mountain Escape.
The Crazy Horn Chalet features stunning mountain views alongside total privacy. This rental offers a spacious living area, high-speed WiFi, and a fully equipped kitchen.
Whether you're enjoying a morning coffee on the deck or stargazing at night, you'll be nestled in the perfect stay for a dreamy Colorado vacation.
Exploring Florissant?
Try Guided Tours!
If you’re new to Colorado travel and will be exploring Florissant for the first time, it can be daunting to map out the terrain to explore.
However, there are several guided tour options available that offer thrilling ways to explore the landscape of Colorado.
Jeep tours are extremely popular in Colorado, and Florissant has some companies nearby which offer jeep tour services. Jeep tours offer more memorable vacation experiences versus taking on the wilderness alone.
Ranger guided tours are also popular in Florissant, CO.
Local area experts provide insights towards enhancing your experience as you explore the area's rich history and stunning landscapes.
They also ensure that you don’t miss hidden gems and must-see attractions!
Jeep Tours
Location: 720 US-24, Woodland Park, CO 80863
Great Outdoors Adventures offers thrilling jeep tours that take visitors on exciting off-road excursions through Colorado's rugged terrain, providing stunning views and an immersive experience of the region's natural beauty.
Location: 2315 E Main St, Canon City, CO 81212
Colorado Jeep Tours provides adventurous off-road excursions that explore the state's breathtaking landscapes, offering guests a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of Colorado's mountains and terrain.
Guided Hiking Tours
Florissant Fossil Beds Ranger Guided Tours
Location: 15807 Co Rd 1, Florissant, CO 80816
Florissant Fossil Beds Ranger Guided Tours offer educational hiking experiences led by knowledgeable rangers, allowing visitors to explore the monument's unique fossil-rich landscapes while learning about its geology and ecology.
Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
Location: 15807 Co Rd 1, Florissant, CO 80816
Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument preserves an extraordinary record of prehistoric life, featuring an array of well-preserved fossils, ancient trees, and scenic landscapes.
Location: 18117 Teller County Rd 1, Florissant, CO 80816
Florissant Fossil Quarry is a unique site where visitors can observe and collect fossilized remains, offering a glimpse into the rich prehistoric ecosystem of the area.
Pikes Peak Historical Society Museum
Location: 18033 Teller County Rd 1, Florissant, CO 80816
The Pikes Peak Historical Society Museum highlights the heritage of the Pikes Peak region through exhibits on local history, artifacts, and the stories of its early settlers.
Location: 156 Calle De La Lluvia, Florissant, CO 80816
Located in a dark protected area of the old spanish Las Brisas Ranch, it is 11 miles west of Pikes Peak, Colorado, at an elevation of 8500 feet.
Las Brisas Observatory is a facility dedicated to astronomy, offering visitors the chance to explore the night sky through telescopes and engage in educational programs about celestial phenomena.
Location: 15806 Co Rd 1, Florissant, CO 80816
Hornbeck Homestead is a historic site that showcases early 20th-century homesteading life in Colorado, featuring preserved buildings and artifacts that tell the story of rural living in the area.
Gold Belt Tour and Historic Byway
Location: 13999 Main St, Guffey, CO 80820
Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center
Location: 201 S Fairview St, Woodland Park, CO 80863
The Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center is a museum in Woodland Park, CO, that showcases an impressive collection of dinosaur fossils, interactive exhibits, and educational programs that explore the prehistoric world.
Location: 117 Center Ave, Woodland Park, CO 80863
The Woodland Park Farmers Market is a vibrant weekly event that features local vendors offering fresh produce, handmade goods, and artisan products.
Recreation & Leisure: Mountains and Lakes
Location: Colorado 80827
Stoll Mountain is located in the Pike National Forest, southwest of Florissant, Colorado. It's typically accessed via hiking trails in the area, particularly from the nearby trailheads. The approximate coordinates are around 38.90° N latitude and 105.21° W longitude.
Pikes Peak – “America’s Mountain”
Location: 5089 Pikes Peak Highway, Cascade, CO 80809
Pikes Peak, America's Mountain is a majestic 14,115-foot summit renowned for its breathtaking vistas, scenic drive, and diverse hiking trails, attracting outdoor enthusiasts and visitors year-round.
Location: Lake George, CO 80827
Lake George in Colorado is a scenic mountain lake popular for fishing, boating, and picnicking. The area offers travelers a peaceful retreat surrounded by the breath-taking view of nature.
Location: Manitou Park Recreation Area in Woodland Park, Colorado, 5.2 miles north of Woodland Park on Colorado State Highway 67
Manitou Park Lake is a serene destination in Colorado, ideal for fishing, picnicking, and strolls, all set against the picturesque Pikes Peak region.
Recreation & Leisure: State Parks
Location: 4186, 4344 Co Rd 92, Lake George, CO 80827
Also enjoy the
Eleven Mile Canyon Reservoir
located in the Eleven Mile State, about 11 miles south of Lake George. Eleven Mile Canyon Reservoir is a picturesque gem in Colorado, offering stunning scenery, excellent fishing opportunities, and a serene environment for nature lovers.
Location: 21045 CO-67, Divide, CO 80814
LOCAL DINING FAVORITES
Iron Tree Restaurant & Funky Town Brewery
Location: 37 Costello Ave, Florissant, CO 80816
Iron Tree Restaurant & Funky Town Brewery offers a unique dining experience with a diverse menu of delicious dishes and a variety of craft beers brewed on-site.
Location: 2679 US-24, Florissant, CO 80816
Costello Coffee House is a charming café known for its cozy atmosphere, delicious coffee, and tasty pastries,
Location: 2652 US-24, Florissant, CO 80816
Thunderbird Inn is a popular local spot for enjoying a cold beer and classic bar food.
Location: 10 Buffalo Ct, Divide, CO 80814
Paradox Beer Company is a craft brewery renowned for its innovative and flavorful brews, set against a backdrop of stunning mountain scenery.
Book your Colorado Vacation!
Don't forget to check out our other 4 Colorado vacation rentals! In addition to our Florissant, CO chalet, we also have lodging in Green Mountain Falls, Pueblo, Colorado Springs, and Divide!
Whether you are a rustic retreater, or searching for an ideal scene to be cozy and unplugged, a welcome sight of beauty and adventure is awaiting you!
Check out our Top 4 Colorado Vacation Destinations Blog to explore each destination and get travel tips on wherever you decide to go!
LOVE WHAT YOU READ?
Brandon Robinson is an enthusiastic blogger based in Statesboro, GA, juggling multiple roles with flair.
By day, he serves as a Secretary to Directors at the Bulloch County Board of Education.
With a Bachelor’s of Arts in Economics and a minor in Philosophy from Emory University, Brandon is passionate about storytelling and connecting with people. When he’s not immersed in work or writing, he loves to explore new destinations and discover hidden gems in the vacation rental scene.
