Mesa Top Sites: A Journey Through Ancestral Puebloan History
Discover 700 years of Ancestral Puebloan history at Mesa Verde's Mesa Top Sites, showcasing evolving architecture and ancient traditions.
Explore the Mesa Top Sites in Mesa Verde National Park, where you can witness 700 years of Ancestral Puebloan history unfold. This easily accessible area showcases the evolution of architectural styles, from early pithouses to impressive multi-storied villages, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who thrived here for centuries.
A brief summary to Mesa Top Sites
- Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, 81330, US
Local tips
- Download the audio tour, 'A Pueblo Perspective on Mesa Verde,' for an immersive experience along the Mesa Top Loop Road.
- Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and experience the sites in softer light.
- Allow at least 45 minutes to an hour to fully explore the Mesa Top Loop Road and its various stops.
Getting There
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Driving
To reach the Mesa Top Sites, enter Mesa Verde National Park via Highway 160 between Cortez and Mancos, Colorado. After entering the park, drive approximately 20 miles along the main park road. This scenic drive takes around 45 minutes due to the steep, narrow, and winding nature of the road. Continue past the Far View Visitor Center. The Mesa Top Loop Road will be on your right. There is an entrance fee to access Mesa Verde National Park, which is typically $30 per vehicle during the summer months (May through October). This pass is valid for 7 days. Alternatively, an annual pass can be purchased for $55. Parking is available at designated areas along the Mesa Top Loop Road.
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Public Transport
While there is no public bus transportation directly to the Mesa Top Loop Road, guided tours from Durango often include transportation within Mesa Verde National Park. These tours typically cost between $150-$250 per person, depending on the duration and specific itinerary. These tours will handle the park entrance fee. Check with the tour operator for specific details on transportation and access to the Mesa Top Sites.
Discover more about Mesa Top Sites
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mesa Verde Administrative District
2.3 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
8.4 km
Discover the rich history of the Ancestral Puebloans at Coyote Village, an archaeological gem in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado.
Megalithic House
8.9 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
20.4 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
20.5 km
Experience exceptional event planning at The Moore The Merrier, where every celebration is crafted to perfection in beautiful Colorado.
Welcome to Colorado Sign
32.0 km
Discover the gateway to adventure at Colorado's iconic Welcome Sign, a must-visit historical landmark for every traveler.
Escalante Pueblo
35.4 km
Explore the ancient wonders of Escalante Pueblo, where history and nature converge in the stunning landscapes of Dolores, Colorado.
Discover Durango
44.8 km
Experience the breathtaking outdoor adventures in Durango, Colorado, with expert hiking guides and top-notch rental services for a memorable journey.
McElmo Canyon
51.2 km
Explore McElmo Canyon in Colorado for breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and peaceful outdoor adventures, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
The Farmington F
51.5 km
Experience the breathtaking views and rich history at The Farmington F, a landmark symbolizing the pride of Farmington, New Mexico.
Silver River Adobe Inn
51.9 km
Discover the charm of Silver River Adobe Inn in Farmington, NM, a cozy bed and breakfast with authentic Southwestern hospitality.
Unmissable attractions to see
Square Tower House
0.7 km
Explore the remarkable Square Tower House in Mesa Verde National Park, a historic site showcasing the ingenuity of the Ancestral Puebloans amidst breathtaking scenery.
Sun Temple
0.8 km
Explore the mysteries of the Sun Temple, an Ancestral Puebloan ceremonial site in Mesa Verde National Park, offering stunning views and archaeological intrigue.
Sun Point View
0.8 km
Witness stunning panoramic views of ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings from this easily accessible overlook in Mesa Verde National Park.
Navajo Canyon View
0.9 km
Experience breathtaking vistas of Navajo Canyon and ancient cliff dwellings at this must-see overlook in Mesa Verde National Park.
Cliff Palace
1.0 km
Explore the ancient Cliff Palace, the largest cliff dwelling in North America, and step back in time to experience Ancestral Puebloan life in Mesa Verde.
Balcony House
1.7 km
Explore Balcony House in Mesa Verde: A thrilling adventure into Ancestral Puebloan history and architecture.
Soda Canyon Overlook South
1.8 km
Discover breathtaking views and rich cultural history at Soda Canyon Overlook South in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado.
Hemenway House Overlook
2.1 km
Witness the ancient Hemenway House from this stunning Mesa Verde National Park overlook, a tribute to Ancestral Puebloan ingenuity.
Spruce Tree House
2.3 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.
Mesa Verde Park Headquarters
2.3 km
Discover the heart of Mesa Verde National Park, where Ancestral Puebloan history comes to life.
Petroglyph Point Trail
2.4 km
Explore ancient rock art and stunning canyon views on the Petroglyph Point Trail in Mesa Verde National Park. A journey through time!
Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum
2.4 km
Discover the ancient world of the Ancestral Pueblo people at Mesa Verde's Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum.
Long House
5.3 km
Uncover the rich history and stunning architecture of the Long House, an incredible cliff dwelling in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado.
Wetherill Mesa Information
6.0 km
Experience the wonders of Mesa Verde National Park at the Wetherill Mesa Information Center, your essential guide to exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Step House
6.0 km
Discover the unique blend of ancient cultures at Step House, Mesa Verde National Park's fascinating self-guided cliff dwelling.
Essential places to dine
Spruce Tree Terrace Café
2.6 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
45.2 km
Experience authentic New Mexican cuisine at D N M Grillen Native, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in Shiprock.
Chat & Chew
45.5 km
Discover mouthwatering burgers at Chat & Chew in Shiprock – where flavor meets local charm.
That's A Burger
46.7 km
Discover That's A Burger in Shiprock - where delicious fast food meets local charm!
Bamboo House Restaurant
46.8 km
Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at Bamboo House Restaurant in Shiprock - where every dish tells a story of flavor.
Nataaní Nez
48.0 km
Experience the rich flavors of Native American cuisine at Nataaní Nez in Shiprock, New Mexico – where tradition meets taste.
Grill On the Hill
51.7 km
Experience delectable grilled dishes amidst breathtaking views at Grill On the Hill in Farmington - your ultimate culinary retreat.
No Worries Sports Bar & Grill
52.3 km
Discover delicious grilled dishes and vibrant nightlife at No Worries Sports Bar & Grill in Farmington - your go-to destination for great food and fun.
Los Hermanitos
52.6 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Los Hermanitos in Farmington—where vibrant flavors meet warm hospitality.
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
53.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Olive Garden in Farmington – where every meal feels like a celebration.
Riverside Pizza Restaurant
53.2 km
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Arches Restaurant
53.2 km
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Chili's Grill & Bar
53.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American and Tex-Mex cuisine at Chili's Grill & Bar in Farmington - perfect for families and friends alike.
Outback Steakhouse
53.3 km
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George and John world famous burgers fries and more food trailer
53.3 km
Experience the taste of America at George and John's world famous burgers fries in Farmington - where every bite tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Main Parking Area
2.5 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
10.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of American cuisine and breathtaking views at Far View Terrace Café in Mesa Verde National Park.
Sinclair Gas Station
10.6 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
16.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of local flavors and breathtaking views at Knife Edge Cafe in Mesa Verde National Park.
Camp Store
16.2 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
17.6 km
Explore authentic Native American crafts and gifts at Thunderbird Trading Company in Cortez, Colorado, a cultural gem for discerning travelers.
Entrance Station Kiosk
19.7 km
Explore the Entrance Station Kiosk in Colorado, a vital hub for adventure seekers and nature lovers seeking guidance and information.
Antique Corral
19.8 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
20.3 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
21.5 km
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Buffalo Bob's Co-op
22.1 km
Explore Buffalo Bob's Co-op in Cortez, Colorado for unique home goods and handcrafted treasures reflecting local artistry.
LaDawn's
22.3 km
Explore LaDawn's Consignment Shop in Cortez, Colorado, for unique finds and vintage treasures that showcase local culture and charm.
Say Yes Bridal & Boutique
22.3 km
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Anna's Mini Treasure
22.4 km
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Love On A Hanger
22.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Roadside Fry Bread Stand
2.0 km
Experience the essence of Native American cuisine with delicious fry bread in the stunning Mesa Verde National Park.
Far View Lounge
10.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite cuisine and breathtaking views at Far View Lounge in Mesa Verde National Park.
Metate Room
10.6 km
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Kuchu's Restaurant
18.4 km
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The Meltdown
21.6 km
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The Wigglin’ Pig
21.7 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
22.0 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
22.1 km
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Blondies Trophy Room
22.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Blondies Trophy Room, a beloved grill in Cortez, Colorado, offering delicious meals in a welcoming atmosphere.
Main Street Brewery & Restaurant
22.4 km
Experience the essence of Colorado craft brewing at Main Street Brewery & Restaurant, where delicious food meets artisanal beers in Cortez.
Loungin' Lizard
22.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and unique flavors of Loungin' Lizard, a top dining destination in Cortez, Colorado.
ZU Gallery
22.5 km
Discover the perfect blend of art and wine at ZU Gallery in Cortez, Colorado, where creativity and culture come together in a vibrant setting.
WildEdge Brewing Collective
22.6 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
23.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Angel's End Zone Sports Bar in Cortez, Colorado, where delicious food and sports unite for an unforgettable experience.
Cortez Elks Lodge #1789
23.9 km
Discover the heart of Cortez at Cortez Elks Lodge #1789, where community spirit meets delicious food and memorable events.
