Cortez Colorado Accommodations

When would be the best time of year to visit the city of Cortez, CO?

Cortez's semi-arid climate brings hot summer days and mild winter ones. It doesn't experience the high humidity during summer that coastal locations do, making its typical summer highs in the low to high 80s perfectly pleasant. However, heat waves have seen the daily temperatures push past 100. Summer is the peak tourist season too, so if you're flexible with your travel dates you'll get a better deal in spring or fall.

Traveling outside summer isn't just more affordable. Spring and fall's average daily highs from the low 50s to low 70s are much more comfortable for hiking. These seasons are also some of the most beautiful in Cortez. Wildflowers bloom along the trails in spring and the leaves turn from green to red, brown, and gold in fall. Affordable travel, pleasant temperatures, and natural beauty make fall and spring the best seasons for visiting Cortez.

Winter days are relatively mild with temperatures in the low to mid-40s common. However, Cortez's high elevation makes winter nights icy. Cortez usually gets around 73 inches of snow each year, with most falling in winter.

Which hotels in Cortez, CO offer the best discounts?

Selected travelers can save plenty at Cortez hotels. If you qualify for a discount, remember to bring your valid identification to the check-in desk.

Econo Lodge – Cortez has special rates for AAA and CAA auto club members, seniors and AARP members, government and military personnel, and members of large traveling groups needing at least 10 rooms. There are pet-friendly and accessible rooms, each with 32-inch flat-screen TVs, massage shower heads, power outlets by the nightstands, and safes for your peace of mind. This hotel suits business travelers and vacationing visitors with its seasonal outdoor pool with sundeck, fitness center, and copy, print, and fax machines. There's free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, free coffee in the lobby, and a free Easy Starts breakfast available each morning.

Far View Lodge, is the only accommodation within Mesa Verde National Park. Seniors aged 55 and older and AAA auto club members receive a 10 percent discount on the standard room rate. Book early for the 15 percent advance purchase rate. All its rooms are beautiful, with custom-made furniture and high-tech appliances. But for something special, book a Kiva Deluxe room. They have the best views, perfect for wildlife watching and stargazing on clear Colorado nights. Far View Lounge is the perfect place to relax with friends, watch big sporting matches, or enjoy specialty cocktails and the tasty pub grub.

What hotels offer the best value around Cortez, CO?

The following Cortez hotels pride themselves on offering value for money. The right combination of comfortable rooms, top amenities, friendly service, and relatively low prices always satisfies.

Days Inn by Wyndham Cortez is a comfortable pet-friendly hotel at the juncture of I-160 and I-145. Its location isn't the only drawcard for road trippers, who'll enjoy free parking whether they're a driving a car, truck, or RV. Further freebies like the complimentary Wi-Fi and piping hot Daybreak breakfast add further value. After a busy day sightseeing, retreat to your inviting room, soak in the Jacuzzi tub, or during warm weather, cool down in the seasonal outdoor pool.

After comprehensive renovations in 2016, Best Western Turquoise Inn & Suites – Cortez looks like an even better option for guests. It has a wide variety of rooms to suit all needs and budgets, including accessible rooms, suites, and rooms with fireplaces and hot tubs. There's also another hot tub downstairs, with a unique waterfall adding romance. For a cool dip, hit the seasonal outdoor pool during warm weather months. Guests enjoy plenty of perks, including free internet access, free parking, and a generous buffet breakfast each morning.

Where can you explore the history of Cortez, CO?

Cortez is a haven for history buffs, with key prehistoric and historic sites dotted throughout the city and its surroundings. Learn more about the area's past at the following local attractions.

Mesa Verde National Park has some of the best-preserved Anasazi archeological sites in the country. See their cliff dwellings and mesa-top villages which date back to between 450 and 1300. You can take a bus tour or drive through the park, but you'll probably see more on foot. There are thousands of archeological sites here, so experts suggest reserving at least two days to make the most of your visit.

Crow Canyon Archaeological Center is a living classroom offering immersive educational experiences for children and adults alike. The center researches and preserves the history of the Anasazi people who lived in the Mesa Verde more than 700 years ago. Visit on Wednesdays and Thursdays from June to September, when Crow Canyon runs one-day tours. See a working excavation site, curation room, and lab, touch ancient Pueblo artifacts, and learn more about the Anasazi culture on this unique tour.

A historic building constructed in 1909 now houses the Cortez Culture Center. It's a fascinating place for anyone interested in archeology and Native American culture. Admire historic artifacts and works from local artists in the gallery. The center opens all year round but is best visited during summer, when you can see Native American dancing and hear stories about native culture in the plaza every Monday to Saturday evening. The Cortez Culture Center is closed on Sundays.

Cortez is a vibrant location with a rich history and top tourist facilities. Enjoy its close proximity to leading national tourist attractions, but don't forget to experience all Cortez offers within its city limits.