Known as the Switzerland of America, Ouray is a Victorian mining village set under the towering peaks of the Rockies. The area is a world-class ice-climbing destination but you don't need to pack a pick for a weekend in the mountains. You can bathe in hot springs, hike to Box Canyon Falls, or visit the Ouray County Museum and take an old mine tour, while thrill-seekers can try white-water rafting on the Uncompahgre River. Movie buffs will recognize the river as the backdrop to Clint Eastwood's "True Grit." After dark, venture out for dinner and drinks in Ouray's lively downtown.
Are you hoping to find top things to see and do in the city? Although it can be tempting to stay in your comfortable vacation rental, you'll want to experience everything that makes Ouray a fun spot to vacation. Here are some of the most popular attractions to explore, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:
An outdoor enthusiast's dream, Ouray is not a place for relaxing. As the ice-climbing capital of the US, winter draws crowds of ice climbers who come to conquer the region's frozen waterfalls. Visit in summer and you'll find it's a thrill-seekers Mecca, with mountain biking and hiking trails, and hair-raising off-road SUV expeditions. There is one way to relax, however. Visit one of the natural hot springs which surround the town, take your boots off and soothe your aching bones in the bubbling thermal waters.
Tucked away in the San Juan Mountains in the Rockies, this small town experiences all seasons, often in one day. Summers are generally warm, but cool at night and with the chance of rain and thunderstorms in July and August. Fall is when temperatures drop dramatically, but the sun still shines. Book a Ouray vacation rental in winter, and you could experience freezing temperatures and extreme snowfall, so pack for the Arctic. Spring is the nicest time to visit, with mild temperatures, a glimpse of sun, and rarely any rain.
Ouray is a small mining town surrounded by the towering peaks of the San Juan Mountains, part of the Colorado Rockies. Moments from the main drag is the entrance to Box Canyon Falls Park, home to a 285-foot waterfall. There is an entrance fee between May and November, but the rest of the year it's free to enjoy. Birders come to spot the rare black swift, which migrates here each summer. Further afield you'll find the San Juan and Uncompahgre National Forests. The arid plains is where you'll find large herds of elk, mule deer, and bighorn sheep.
The nearest airport is in Telluride, CO (TEX-Telluride Regional), located 13.4 mi (21.5 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you could also fly into Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ), which is 35.2 mi (56.7 km) away.
Whether you're in search of a cozy retreat for you and your honey or a sprawling house to fit friends and family, you'll find some top vacation rentals in and around Ouray. Here are a couple to get you started:
For even more great options, use the search bar at the top of the page to find the perfect Ouray vacation rental for you.
Often set in the middle of nature, log cabins offer a lovely retreat from the hustle and bustle of life. If you're ready to switch off and take a break, have a look at these log cabins to rent in Ouray:
If you've been busier than a hamster on a treadwheel, you deserve to escape for a couple of days. Skip out of work early on Friday and head to one of these weekend getaways in or near Ouray:
Studio apartments are a simple yet stylish pick, perfectly suited for one or two guests. Spend your days familiarizing yourself with your surroundings and your nights chilling out in your comfy hideaway. These vacation properties in or near Ouray will tick all the boxes:
Whether you're in search of a studio apartment for you and a few friends or a house that'll fit the entire family, there's no shortage of short-term rentals in and around Ouray. These retreats make a comfortable base for a short and sweet stay:
Forget flowers and chocolates. Sometimes all you need is to escape for a weekend, just you and your beloved. At Vrbo, we've got romantic getaways in and around Ouray that would make even old Cupid green with envy. Here are some we think you'll adore:
Big groups mean gigantic fun. They also mean finding a place that'll easily fit your crew. Check out our large group vacation rentals in or around Ouray and get everyone together under the one roof:
Nothing screams fun like a pool. Dig out your unicorn floatie and check out these rental houses in or near Ouray that come with this vacation necessity:
Unsure how to pack your suitcase for your Ouray escape? This impressive destination has a humid continental climate. During summer, you can expect average temperatures ranging from 35 ºF to 65 ºF. Scroll through our range of Ouray vacation rentals by using the search bar at the top of the page. Simply adjust the filters to get more inspiration on where to stay.
No matter if your ideal escape is up in the mountains or by the ocean, you'll have a lot more fun if you share it with family and friends. Consider one of these large family vacation rentals in or near Ouray and bring the entire crew along:
When you want to explore your surroundings, there are lots of family-friendly attractions nearby to keep everyone entertained and happy. Cascade Falls, Imogene Pass and Bear Creek Falls should be on your itinerary.
Vacation with the kids in a family cabin rental in or near Ouray and build some unforgettable memories together. Here are a couple we think you'll love:
For more options, use the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to find the Ouray vacation rental that's perfect for your needs.