Buena Vista Tourism
White water rafting and kayaking remain the number one draw to the area during the summer months.
The kayak water park at the end of East Main was expanded this year and is the longest one in the nation. The Arkansas River provides up to Class V rapids.
Hiking and mountain bike trails abound throughout the area, and four wheeling and exploring historic mining towns are other favorite pastimes. Soaking in hot springs is available all year. Hunting begins in August and goes through early winter. Winter allows for snowmobiling the Continental Divide, cross-country skiing and downhill skiing at nearby locations.
A full calendar of events including rodeos, concerts, car shows, hot air balloons, motorized events, footraces, bicycle events and even burro races keeps the community active.
Artist receptions and shows, melodramas, historic walking tours and concerts in the park are available on a regular basis or can be set up for special groups. A variety of lodging businesses from campgrounds to dude ranches and resorts offer something for everyone.
Fast food to fine dining is also available, and a burgeoning arts community completes the picture.
Buena Vista is a favorite area for history buffs. Buena Vista Heritage, the local historic association, is at the heart of the Heritage Tourism in Buena Vista.
Four properties provide a backdrop for “historical” experiences - from old-fashioned celebrations to settings for wedding and reunions. The Buena Vista Heritage Museum was the original Chaffee County Court House and houses a model railroad that depicts the area around 1900.
The Historic Turner Farm opened in 2005 where people can step back into 1910 and experience life on an apple farm.
The Railroad Depot and an historic caboose have been relocated to McPhelemy Park and will be a railroad museum. The old school house in St. Elmo (one of the best preserved historic mining towns) and rebuilding the Town Hall are also Buena Vista Heritage projects.
Buena Vista is part of the newly designated Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway. This runs from north of Buena Vista along Highway 24 to South of Salida along Highway 285 and Highway 50.
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