Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Lamar, Colorado

Lamar serves as the seat and the most populous city in Prowers County, located in the southeastern portion of Colorado, near the border with Kansas.

For many travelers arriving from the east, Lamar signifies the initial stop in the Rocky Mountain State. Its charming and historical ambiance offers visitors unique perspectives on life in the Great Plains.

Although Lamar is a small town, it boasts numerous historical sites, alongside a variety of dining and accommodation options. The surrounding countryside is particularly favored by sports enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

Below are 15 attractions to explore in and around Lamar, Colorado.

1. Colorado Welcome Center

Welcome centers provide an excellent starting point for individuals unfamiliar with an area.

The Colorado Welcome Center is conveniently situated just a few blocks from US Routes 50 and 385 on East Beech Street, featuring a wealth of complimentary resources that enhance the visitor experience.

The center operates during regular business hours and is staffed by knowledgeable locals who assist guests in discovering local attractions and activities.

Visitors can also view historical and cultural exhibits, along with maps and travel brochures that often highlight deals on dining, accommodations, and attractions.

2. Big Timbers Museum

Located along US Route 50 in Lamar, Big Timbers Museum hosts a unique and varied collection of artifacts showcasing different facets of the town’s history.

The displayed items include vintage vehicles, memorabilia from World Wars I and II, historic medical instruments, and horse-drawn carriages.

Entry costs less than a typical meal at a casual dining establishment, and the average visit lasts about an hour before embarking on the next adventure.

Visitors wishing to contribute additional funds for the museum’s maintenance are encouraged to do so.

3. Brew Unto Others Coffee Shop

The owners of independent coffee shops frequently possess a talent for devising catchy and memorable names, and Brew Unto Others exemplifies this concept.

Established in 2013 on South Main Street, Brew Unto Others prioritizes high-quality coffee while also striving to make a community impact by donating a portion of proceeds to local charities.

The establishment operates daily and offers a variety of hot and cold beverages, alongside fresh baked items, fruit, yogurt, and lunch options like Panini sandwiches and wraps.

4. Bj’s Super Burger

For individuals who favor classic burger joints over expansive national chains, Bj’s Super Burger presents a delightful dining option while in Lamar.

Situated on South Main Street, this establishment boasts an extensive menu of burgers, ranging from simple variations with few condiments to elaborate creations featuring jalapeño peppers, cheese, and bacon.

Additionally, they offer savory sides like fries and coleslaw, with many patrons noting that the service is typically as efficient as fast-food dining.

5. 3rd Street Nest Bed & Breakfast

Visitors to Lamar have access to a variety of lodging options; while many are affordable and comfortable, they may lack unique character and charm.

3rd Street Nest Bed & Breakfast, established in 2004, is housed in a residence originally constructed over a century ago.

Though the home is historic, its few rooms are equipped with modern amenities, including air conditioning, heating, televisions, and private bathrooms.

A gourmet breakfast is provided for each guest, and there’s a fascinating collection of birdhouses worth exploring.

6. Petrified Wood Gas Station

Gas stations constructed from petrified wood are exceedingly rare; however, for enthusiasts of quirky Americana visiting Lamar, one such station is worth a visit.

The Petrified Wood Gas Station claims to be the oldest structure of its kind, an intriguing assertion given the relatively young history of the United States.

Built in the 1930s using slabs of petrified wood reportedly dating back nearly 200 million years, the historic gas station now serves as the office for a car dealership. It is located on North Main Street in town and is accessible at no charge.

7. Happy Garden

Boasting fresh ingredients, traditional recipes, ample portion sizes, and reasonable prices, Happy Garden Chinese Restaurant is a favored choice for those seeking value during their vacations.

Located on South Main Street, Happy Garden offers a wide selection of Chinese favorites, such as cashew chicken, lo mein, fried rice, and orange beef.

Patrons consistently rate Happy Garden as one of the best Chinese dining establishments they have encountered. The interior ambiance is comfortable, embellished with traditional artwork, and frequently features relaxing Asian music that enhances the overall exotic atmosphere.

8. John Martin Reservoir State Park

John Martin Reservoir State Park provides nature enthusiasts and outdoor aficionados with a wealth of activities throughout the year.

The park’s reservoir ranks among the state’s largest and is popular among anglers, kayakers, swimmers, and sunbathers during the summer.

Avid bird watchers report more than 300 bird species frequent the park’s diverse habitats, including notable residents such as bald eagles, plovers, and migratory birds.

The park also features a network of multi-use trails, ensuring that visitors can escape the crowds that gather around the reservoir’s beach.

9. High Plains Snow Goose Festival

For nearly two decades, Lamar has hosted the well-known High Plains Snow Goose Festival.

This event, occurring in early January, attracts bird enthusiasts from across the nation.

Many festival activities emphasize education and include keynote speakers and guided tours led by ornithologists and passionate snow goose specialists.

It is advisable to dress warmly, as January weather can be challenging. With numerous activities available, visitors should plan to spend ample time at the festival.

The event also features locally made arts and crafts, a multitude of food vendors, and family-friendly activities suitable for a wide age range.

10. Two Buttes Trail

Hiking is a cherished pastime enjoyed by both Colorado residents and visitors throughout the year. For those eager to explore while maximizing time efficiency, the Two Buttes Trail is an excellent choice.

The trail meanders through diverse landscapes, encompassing prairies, wooded areas, ranches, and streams.

Birdwatching is particularly popular along the nearly 30 miles of trails, where visitors can observe hundreds of bird species, including some rare varieties that appear only seasonally.

Several access points are available around Lamar, and detailed trail maps can be easily located online.

11. Camp Amache National Historic Landmark

During World War II, a controversial executive order facilitated the internment of thousands of individuals of Japanese ancestry due to fears of potential espionage.

Camp Amache National Historic Landmark is one of Colorado’s most unique and historically significant sites, situated near Granada close to the Kansas border.

Designated as a National Historic Landmark by the National Park Service, this site features interpretive displays, informative plaques, and personal narratives that provide visitors with profound insights into the experiences of those detained here.

12. Arkansas Riverwalk

The Arkansas River flows through central Pueblo, and the Arkansas Riverwalk is among the city’s most visited attractions.

This scenic promenade features striking views that blend natural and man-made elements. Informative signs line the path, providing intriguing snippets about local history, such as the devastating flood of 1921.

Visitors can also enjoy landscaped gardens, designated seating areas, and local art installations. In warmer months, the Riverwalk comes alive with outdoor fairs, festivals, live music, and movie screenings.

The surrounding area features numerous vibrant bars and restaurants that often bustle with activity in the late afternoon and evening.

13. Weisbrod Aircraft Museum

For aviation enthusiasts and history aficionados, a visit to Weisbrod Aircraft Museum offers an engaging way to spend an afternoon.

Located on Magnuson Avenue in Pueblo, this museum features an impressive array of vintage military and commercial aircraft that have been meticulously restored to near-original condition.

In addition to its aircraft collection, the museum exhibits military vehicles and memorabilia, such as uniforms, weaponry, and equipment from various 20th-century American conflicts.

The museum operates daily from 10 AM to 4 PM, with varying hours on Sundays.

14. Rosemount Museum

Located on West 14th Street in Pueblo, the Rosemount Mansion epitomizes elegance; originally built in the 1890s, it reflects the opulence of the era.

The mansion boasts nearly 40 rooms and served as the residence of a prominent family for approximately 75 years.

It features original-period furnishings, artwork, and household items, alongside many amenities that remained uncommon in most homes for decades thereafter.

Guided tours are regularly available throughout the day, and during the holiday season, visitors are sometimes afforded the opportunity for self-guided tours.

15. Pueblo Heritage Museum

Situated on West B Street in Pueblo, the Pueblo Heritage Museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the region’s cultural lineage and historical significance.

Exhibits explore both settler and Native American cultures, featuring art, artifacts, and historically relevant memorabilia that collectively narrate a compelling story stretching back centuries.

An upstairs library managed by the local historical society often goes unnoticed by rushed visitors, yet it houses an extensive collection of historical documents and genealogical information that is particularly valuable for those with ancestral ties to the area.