Flanked by the majestic
Collegiate Peaks and the mighty Arkansas River in Chalk Creek Canyon, Buena Vista more than lives up to its name—which means “beautiful view”—and draws adventurous spirits for its unparalleled whitewater rafting, hiking, and mountain biking, as well as a solid live music scene and fun festivals all summer long.
Buena Vista’s historic downtown is home to buildings dating to its heyday as a railroad town in the 1880s and 1890s, housing art galleries, a book store, and eclectic local shops. Learn more about Buena Vista’s history at the museum in the , built in 1882, and check out nearby , one since 1950; this year’s festivities are the weekend of August 12–13 ().
