You Might Not Expect This Colorado Town to Rank #1
I might be a bit biased when I say Colorado is the best state in the nation. I love living here, and when my wife and I were out of the state, we couldn't wait to get back. The mountains, the scenery, and the people were what we missed the most.
Colorado Small Town Named Best in the West
Recently, one Colorado town ranked as the best small town in the West by USA Today's 10 Best. You might not have been to this town before, but chances are that you have eaten something from there.
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This small Colorado town has been on my bucket list for quite some time, simply for the produce alone. Palisade is known as the Peach Capital of Colorado, and for good reason.
I will say, I am not a huge fan of peaches, but I will hardly ever pass up the opportunity to eat a Palisade peach. For that reason, I want to take a trip to this western Colorado town just to go to one of the two dozen orchards and pick my own peaches.
Peaches, Wineries, and Downtown Charm
If peaches aren't your thing, there are 30 wineries in Palisade to check out on your western Colorado adventure. Downtown Palisade is walkable with a bunch of small shops and restaurants, too.
READ MORE: Colorado Restaurant Named One of the Best in 2026
Palisade, Colorado, has year-round outdoor recreational opportunities that include skiing, hiking, biking, and rafting. Making it a great small town to visit for whatever you are into.
Another Colorado Town Makes the List
One other Colorado small town made the list of USA TODAY's 10 Best Small Towns in the West. Breckenridge, Colorado, ranked fifth. See the full list of the best small towns in the West at usatoday.com.
