Discover the Ancient Wonders of Mesa Verde Administrative District
Explore the stunning cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde Administrative District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in history and natural beauty.
Mesa Verde Administrative District is a captivating historical landmark nestled in the heart of Colorado. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers breathtaking views of ancient cliff dwellings and a rich cultural heritage that dates back to the Ancestral Puebloans. Visitors can explore well-preserved ruins, hike scenic trails, and learn about the history and significance of this incredible location.
A brief summary to Mesa Verde Administrative District
- Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, 81330, US
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes as many trails can be rugged and uneven.
- Bring water and snacks, as amenities may be limited in remote areas.
- Check the park's schedule for ranger-led tours and programs for a deeper understanding of the history.
Getting There
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Car
From any location in Eastern Plains, head west on U.S. Route 50. Continue on this highway until you reach the junction with U.S. Route 491. Take the exit onto U.S. Route 491 South towards Cortez. After approximately 60 miles, take the exit towards Mesa Verde National Park. Follow the signs to the park entrance. There is an entrance fee of $20 per vehicle, valid for 7 days.
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Bus
If you prefer public transportation, take a Greyhound bus from your location in Eastern Plains to Cortez, Colorado. The nearest bus station is typically in larger towns such as Lamar or La Junta. Once in Cortez, you can take a local taxi or rideshare service to Mesa Verde National Park. Expect to pay around $10-$30 for the taxi ride, depending on your pickup location.
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Bicycle
For the adventurous, consider cycling from Eastern Plains to Mesa Verde. This will require a good level of fitness and preparation. Follow U.S. Route 50 west, turning onto U.S. Route 491 South. Be aware of traffic, and plan for rest stops along the way. This could take several hours, so start early and ensure you have enough water and snacks.
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Rideshare
Use rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft if available in your area. Input 'Mesa Verde National Park' as your destination. The cost will vary based on distance from your location, but expect to pay between $50-$100 for a round trip, depending on your proximity to the park.
Discover more about Mesa Verde Administrative District
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mesa Verde Administrative District
0.0 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage and stunning cliff dwellings of the Mesa Verde Administrative District, a must-see historical landmark in Colorado.
Coyote Village
6.1 km
Discover the rich history of the Ancestral Puebloans at Coyote Village, an archaeological gem in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado.
Megalithic House
6.6 km
Explore the Megalithic House in Mesa Verde National Park, a historical landmark that reveals the architectural brilliance of ancient civilizations amidst stunning natural beauty.
Yucca House National Monument
19.0 km
Explore the ancient Puebloan ruins at Yucca House National Monument, a serene escape steeped in history and natural beauty in Cortez, Colorado.
The Moore The Merrier
22.0 km
Discover the art of celebration at The Moore The Merrier, where every event is tailored to perfection, ensuring unforgettable experiences for all.
Escalante Pueblo
33.0 km
Explore the ancient heritage of the Pueblo people at Escalante Pueblo, a captivating historical landmark in Dolores, Colorado.
Welcome to Colorado Sign
33.7 km
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Discover Durango
44.7 km
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McElmo Canyon
50.1 km
Explore McElmo Canyon in Colorado for breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and peaceful outdoor adventures, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Painted Hand Pueblo
52.1 km
Explore the awe-inspiring Painted Hand Pueblo, a historical landmark that reveals the rich cultural heritage of Colorado's Ancestral Puebloans amidst stunning natural beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mesa Verde Park Headquarters
0.0 km
Discover the cultural treasures and breathtaking landscapes of Mesa Verde Park Headquarters, an essential stop for history enthusiasts in Colorado.
Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum
0.1 km
Explore the ancient heritage of the Ancestral Puebloans at Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum in Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Spruce Tree House
0.2 km
Discover the ancient architecture of Spruce Tree House in Mesa Verde National Park, a testament to the ingenuity of the Ancestral Puebloans amidst breathtaking scenery.
Navajo Canyon View
2.0 km
Discover the stunning vistas and rich cultural history at Navajo Canyon View in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado.
Square Tower House
2.1 km
Discover the ancient architectural marvels at Square Tower House in Mesa Verde National Park, a historic treasure surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Cliff Palace
2.3 km
Discover the breathtaking Cliff Palace in Mesa Verde National Park, an archaeological wonder showcasing the ingenuity of the Ancestral Puebloans amidst stunning landscapes.
Mesa Top Sites
2.3 km
Discover the ancient cliff dwellings and rich history of Mesa Top Sites in Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sun Temple
2.5 km
Explore the Sun Temple in Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO site showcasing ancient Puebloan architecture and stunning natural beauty.
Sun Point View
2.7 km
Experience the stunning vistas at Sun Point View, a breathtaking overlook in Mesa Verde National Park showcasing nature's beauty and rich history.
Soda Canyon Overlook South
3.1 km
Discover the awe-inspiring views at Soda Canyon Overlook in Mesa Verde National Park, a blend of natural beauty and ancient history.
Balcony House
3.3 km
Discover Balcony House, an ancient cliff dwelling in Mesa Verde National Park, showcasing Puebloan culture and breathtaking landscapes.
Hemenway House Overlook
3.9 km
Discover stunning vistas and rich cultural heritage at Hemenway House Overlook in Mesa Verde National Park, a perfect blend of nature and history.
Long House
4.2 km
Discover the incredible history of the Ancestral Puebloans at Long House, a stunning archaeological site in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado.
Step House
4.5 km
Discover Step House in Mesa Verde National Park, a historical landmark showcasing the ancient Puebloan culture amidst stunning natural beauty.
Wetherill Mesa Information
4.5 km
Experience the rich heritage and stunning landscapes at Wetherill Mesa Information Center in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado.
Essential places to dine
Spruce Tree Terrace Café
0.2 km
Discover the flavors of America at Spruce Tree Terrace Café in Mesa Verde National Park – where delicious food meets stunning natural beauty.
D N M Grillen Native
47.2 km
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Chat & Chew
47.5 km
Discover mouthwatering burgers at Chat & Chew in Shiprock – where flavor meets local charm.
That's A Burger
48.6 km
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Bamboo House Restaurant
48.8 km
Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at Bamboo House Restaurant in Shiprock - where every dish tells a story of flavor.
Nataaní Nez
50.0 km
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Burger Theory
53.8 km
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Grill On the Hill
53.9 km
Experience delectable grilled dishes amidst breathtaking views at Grill On the Hill in Farmington - your ultimate culinary retreat.
Animas Grille & Lounge
54.2 km
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Perbacco Cucina Italiana
54.5 km
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Sizzling Siam
54.5 km
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T's Smokehouse & Grill
54.6 km
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Nini's Taqueria
54.6 km
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Container of Food
54.6 km
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Michel's Corner Crepes
54.6 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Main Parking Area
0.2 km
Explore the stunning Mesa Verde National Park from its Main Parking Area, a gateway to ancient cliff dwellings and rich cultural heritage.
Far View Terrace Café / Gift Shop / Mesa Mocha
8.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of American cuisine and breathtaking views at Far View Terrace Café in Mesa Verde National Park.
Sinclair Gas Station
8.3 km
Experience convenience and comfort at Sinclair Gas Station, your essential stop in the heart of Mesa Verde National Park.
Knife Edge Cafe at Morefield Village
14.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of local flavors and breathtaking views at Knife Edge Cafe in Mesa Verde National Park.
Camp Store
14.2 km
Explore the Camp Store in Mancos, Colorado, your go-to destination for unique gifts, local crafts, and essential camping supplies amidst stunning landscapes.
Thunderbird Trading Company
15.9 km
Explore authentic Native American crafts and gifts at Thunderbird Trading Company in Cortez, Colorado, a cultural gem for discerning travelers.
Entrance Station Kiosk
17.6 km
Explore the Entrance Station Kiosk in Colorado, a vital hub for adventure seekers and nature lovers seeking guidance and information.
Antique Corral
17.7 km
Explore the Antique Corral in Cortez, CO - a hidden gem filled with vintage treasures and unique collectibles for every enthusiast.
Mesa Verde Museum Association
18.3 km
Explore the rich history of the ancient Puebloan culture at the Mesa Verde Museum Association, your gateway to the wonders of Mesa Verde National Park.
Cliffrose Garden Center & Gifts
19.1 km
Explore nature's beauty at Cliffrose Garden Center & Gifts, where unique plants meet thoughtful gifts in the heart of Cortez, Colorado.
Buffalo Bob's Co-op
19.8 km
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LaDawn's
20.0 km
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Say Yes Bridal & Boutique
20.1 km
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Anna's Mini Treasure
20.1 km
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Love On A Hanger
20.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Roadside Fry Bread Stand
3.9 km
Experience the essence of Native American cuisine with delicious fry bread in the stunning Mesa Verde National Park.
Far View Lounge
8.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite cuisine and breathtaking views at Far View Lounge in Mesa Verde National Park.
Metate Room
8.3 km
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Kuchu's Restaurant
17.6 km
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The Meltdown
19.3 km
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The Wigglin’ Pig
19.4 km
Experience the heart of Cortez at The Wigglin’ Pig, where delicious breakfast dishes and a warm atmosphere await every visitor.
J Fargo's Family Dining & Micro Brewery
19.6 km
Experience the best of traditional American cuisine and craft brews at J Fargo's Family Dining & Micro Brewery in Cortez, Colorado.
Fiesta Mexicana Restaurant Cortez
19.7 km
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Blondies Trophy Room
20.1 km
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Main Street Brewery & Restaurant
20.1 km
Experience the essence of Colorado craft brewing at Main Street Brewery & Restaurant, where delicious food meets artisanal beers in Cortez.
Loungin' Lizard
20.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and unique flavors of Loungin' Lizard, a top dining destination in Cortez, Colorado.
ZU Gallery
20.3 km
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WildEdge Brewing Collective
20.3 km
Discover the rich flavors of craft beer at WildEdge Brewing Collective, a must-visit brewpub in Cortez, Colorado, offering a unique selection and vibrant atmosphere.
Angel's End Zone Sports Bar
20.8 km
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Cortez Elks Lodge #1789
21.6 km
Discover the heart of Cortez at Cortez Elks Lodge #1789, where community spirit meets delicious food and memorable events.
