Pearl Street Mall, Boulder
Walk this outdoor pedestrian mall’s brick paths to find unusual goods, including Boulder originals from BoCo Life and kites from Into the Wind. Many of the buildings date to the 1880s, but the wares inside often initiate trends, especially among those who embrace Colorado’s recreational opportunities.

Cherry Creek North, Denver
Nearly a million holiday lights line the 16 blocks of this charming neighborhood that is home to over 300 boutiques, restaurants, art galleries, hotels and fitness/wellness shops. Cherry Creek North’s Winter Wanderland runs Nov. 16–Dec. 24 this year, and includes events like the Holiday Market, Small Business Weekend, Saturday Night Lights and more.

Outlets at Castle Roc
Seeking deals on designer items? Then head to the state’s largest open-air mall, where you can save up to 70% off retail prices. Located off I-25 between Denver and Colorado Springs, the center hosts more than 100 brand-name stores—including Coach, Spyder, Karl Lagerfeld and Lululemon, to name a few. Be sure to pause and look around: The surrounding mesa and mountain views are worth every penny you’ll spend.

Downtown Durango
Lots of mountain towns offer charming shops and boutiques for browsing, but Durango grabs shoppers’ attention because it presents roughly 500 places to poke around for the perfect gift. The variety of goods is mixed, from outdoor gear to Southwestern art and jewelry.