Cortez serves as the primary gateway to Mesa Verde National Park, home to some of the best-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings in North America. The town itself embraces this heritage with museums, cultural centers, and Native American art.
Located in the Four Corners region, Cortez offers access to diverse landscapes and archaeological sites beyond Mesa Verde. Canyon of the Ancients, Hovenweep National Monument, and countless rock art panels dot the surrounding desert.
The town has maintained an authentic, unpretentious character. Main Street features local restaurants, galleries, and the Cortez Cultural Center with free summer programs. It's a practical base for exploring the region's deep history.