Explore the Ancient Wonders of Mesa Verde Administrative District
Discover the rich cultural heritage and stunning cliff dwellings of the Mesa Verde Administrative District, a must-see historical landmark in Colorado.
Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Colorado, the Mesa Verde Administrative District is a treasure trove of prehistoric Native American culture, offering tourists a unique glimpse into the dwellings and traditions of the Ancestral Puebloans.
A brief summary to Mesa Verde Administrative District
- Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, 81330, US
Local tips
- Plan your visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Wear sturdy shoes for hiking and bring plenty of water, as trails can be steep and exposed.
- Check the park's website for ranger-led tours and special events that can enrich your visit.
- Photography is encouraged, so bring your camera to capture the breathtaking views and historical structures.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Durango, CO, take US-160 W for about 35 miles. Follow the signs for Mesa Verde National Park. Upon entering the park, continue to the Visitor Center for maps and information. The entrance fee is $20 per vehicle, valid for 7 days.
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Car
For those coming from Cortez, CO, take US-160 E for approximately 10 miles. Look for the entrance to Mesa Verde National Park on your right. Pay the $20 vehicle entrance fee at the gate.
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Public Transportation
To reach Mesa Verde National Park via public transportation, take a bus from Durango to Cortez. The bus service is provided by the local transit system and costs around $10-$15. From Cortez, you will need to take a taxi or rideshare service to the park entrance, which is about a 10-mile ride.
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Bicycle
For adventurous travelers, biking to Mesa Verde is an option. From Cortez, you can bike along US-160, which is a scenic route but can be busy with traffic. Ensure you have a proper map and take necessary safety precautions.
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
Discover the gateway to adventure at Colorado's iconic Welcome Sign, a must-visit historical landmark for every traveler.
Discover Durango
44.7 km
Experience the breathtaking outdoor adventures in Durango, Colorado, with expert hiking guides and top-notch rental services for a memorable journey.
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
Experience authentic New Mexican cuisine at D N M Grillen Native, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in Shiprock.
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
Discover That's A Burger in Shiprock - where delicious fast food meets local charm!
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
Experience the rich flavors of Native American cuisine at Nataaní Nez in Shiprock, New Mexico – where tradition meets taste.
Burger Theory
53.8 km
Discover the best gourmet burgers and vibrant sports atmosphere at Burger Theory in Durango, Colorado.
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
Experience the best of American cuisine with stunning river views at Animas Grille & Lounge in Durango.
Perbacco Cucina Italiana
54.5 km
Experience the essence of Italy at Perbacco Cucina Italiana in Durango—delicious food, warm ambiance, and unforgettable memories await.
Sizzling Siam
54.5 km
Discover authentic Thai flavors at Sizzling Siam in Durango - where every dish tells a story of tradition and taste.
T's Smokehouse & Grill
54.6 km
Discover the rich flavors of Southern cuisine at T's Smokehouse & Grill in Durango—where barbecue meets Cajun and Creole traditions.
Nini's Taqueria
54.6 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Nini's Taqueria in Durango - where tradition meets innovation in every delicious bite.
Container of Food
54.6 km
Discover flavorful dishes at Container of Food in Durango – where local ingredients meet culinary creativity in a welcoming atmosphere.
Michel's Corner Crepes
54.6 km
Discover the essence of French cuisine at Michel's Corner Crepes in Durango—where every bite transports you to Paris.
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
Explore Buffalo Bob's Co-op in Cortez, Colorado for unique home goods and handcrafted treasures reflecting local artistry.
LaDawn's
20.0 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
20.1 km
Discover the elegance of bridal wear and unique fashion at Say Yes Bridal & Boutique in Cortez, Colorado, a must-visit for fashion-forward shoppers.
Anna's Mini Treasure
20.1 km
Explore Anna's Mini Treasure: A Craft Store Filled with Unique Handmade Goods and Local Artistry.
Love On A Hanger
20.2 km
Explore Love On A Hanger in Cortez, CO for unique women's fashion, accessories, and gifts that capture the essence of local style and charm.
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
Experience the rich flavors of American cuisine at the Metate Room, where stunning views and a warm atmosphere await every visitor.
Kuchu's Restaurant
17.6 km
Experience the heart of Colorado’s culinary delights at Kuchu's Restaurant, where local flavors and hospitality come together.
The Meltdown
19.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of local flavors and welcoming ambiance at The Meltdown, a must-visit restaurant in Cortez, Colorado.
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
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Fiesta Mexicana Restaurant in Cortez, where every meal is a celebration of culture and community.
Blondies Trophy Room
20.1 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
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
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
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
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
21.6 km
Discover the heart of Cortez at Cortez Elks Lodge #1789, where community spirit meets delicious food and memorable events.
