We at Accommodations in Telluride understand that our mountain town may seem simple, but there are layers. Downtown Telluride and Telluride Mountain Village are two parts of the whole, and where you stay can change the whole feel of your vacation.
The good news is that there is no wrong decision here. Whether you choose the historic charm of downtown Telluride or the breathtaking views and upscale vibe of Mountain Village, you will be happy. But there are differences between the two areas, and as we delve deeper into them, we hope to make it easier to choose the one that best fits your vibe and needs.
Why Location Matters for Your Telluride Experience
Those who want seclusion and privacy will prefer the feel of our homes located in Telluride Mountain Village. Those seeking the excitement and energy of life in town will want to stay in Downtown Telluride. Of course, it’s easy to access downtown even if you stay in Mountain Village, and you can always escape to the peace of Mountain Village if you choose a downtown Telluride rental property; where you stay does matter, but you won’t be cut off from the rest of the area.
Atmosphere and Overall Vibe
Downtown Telluride’s Historic Charm and Lively Energy
Downtown Telluride offers perhaps the most authentic vacation experience, if only because this is where it all began. In the 150+ years of existence, our town has morphed from a mining camp to the cosmopolitan area it is today. You can hear the echoes of all those years in buildings that have stood the test of time. Our historic charm is visible in original buildings that serve new purposes and the lively energy that permeates each store, restaurant, and vacation rental that inhabit this exciting part of Telluride.
Mountain Village’s Quiet, Upscale, and Resort-Style Feel
Telluride Mountain Village offers a quieter vacation experience. If you love to feel spoiled, enjoying the finer things in life as you play in luxury resorts, well, this is the part of town for you. The views will make you fall in love, the quiet and seclusion will soothe your senses, and our Mountain Village homes will make you feel at ease and at home.
Walkability, Layout, and Getting Around
Easy Walking Access to Shops, Restaurants, and Events in Downtown
Downtown Telluride is known for its easy walking access to shops, restaurants, and the annual downtown events and festivals. Our downtown retreats are located within walking distance of these popular spots, ensuring a vacation filled with excitement and easy access to entertainment.
Gondola Access and Space in Mountain Village
Private and offering more secluded lodging, Telluride Mountain Village still offers its own access to shops, restaurants, and events. Visitors will have easy access to the Gondola, and the area is less concentrated than downtown Telluride. Our weekend Mountain Village rentals are perfect for a quick getaway!
Ski Access and Year-Round Outdoor Convenience
Although Telluride is a year-round vacation destination, we are known for our winters and the beautiful ski resort. We often receive questions about rentals that offer ski-in/ski-out access, and we are happy to report that both downtown Telluride and Telluride Mountain Village offer wonderful access to the slopes.
Telluride Town Park in downtown is ideal for Nordic skiing, ice skating, and even snowshoeing, but town lifts near our downtown Telluride winter rentals can ensure you make it on the slopes in no time at all. Because there are so many things to do in our mountain town, both areas are perfect for any outdoor activities you want to enjoy. This is another reason there are no wrong choices to be made when choosing between the two areas, something we are quite proud of.
Dining, Nightlife, and Things to Do
Both parts of town offer exciting restaurants, nightlife, and interesting activities.
Telluride Mountain Village
Allred’s Restaurant is a high-end fine-dining establishment offering a dinner experience that will never be forgotten. Reservations are required.
- Location: San Sophia Station, Telluride, CO 81435
- Hours: 5 PM to 9 PM
- Reservations: Online or call 970-728-7474
- Summer Menu
Respected for its exciting après-ski, the Tomboy Tavern features a sophisticated pub-grub menu and stunning views.
- Location: 562 Mountain Village Blvd, Mountain Village, CO 81435
- Hours: 12 PM to 9 PM
- Menu
Telluride Adventure Center offers thrilling adventures that range from biking to ziplining.
- Location: 697 Mountain Village Blvd, Mountain Village, CO 81435
- Hours: 10 AM to 6:30 PM
Downtown Telluride
Housed in a historic 19th-century building, the Last Dollar Saloon is known as “Telluride’s Favorite Watering Hole.” Featuring a rooftop deck and a lively vibe, you can’t go wrong with a visit to this lovely spot.
- Location: 100 E Colorado Ave, Telluride, CO 81435
- Hours: 3 PM to 1 AM
- Menu
The history of Telluride is fascinating, and the Telluride Historical Museum offers an in-depth look into it. We especially love that the museum building is the old Telluride Hospital, making us wonder what stories those walls could tell.
- Location: 201 W Gregory Ave, Telluride, CO 81435
- Hours: 10 AM to 5 PM Monday-Saturday
- Admission:
- $9 General Admission
- $6 Students (6-17)
- $6 Seniors (65 and older)
- Free for Museum members and children 5 and under
Book Your Telluride Vacation Rental in Your Ideal Location
Now that you know the differences between downtown Telluride and Telluride Mountain Village, which area do you think fits your traveling group best? Browse all of our Telluride vacation rentals to find the perfect retreat today!
