The 5 Best Place To Impress Out-Of-Towners Around Summit County

When friends or family come to visit, locals in Summit County know the value of showing off a spot that captures both the beauty and spirit of the Rockies. Whether it’s the awe of standing on a mountain pass, the intimacy of a scenic overlook or the energy of live entertainment under the stars, finding the right place to impress visitors can turn a simple outing into a lasting memory. That’s why the Best of Summit includes the category of Place to Impress Out-of-Towners — a chance to highlight the destinations that locals trust when they want to show guests what makes Summit County so remarkable.

Dillon Amphitheater - Town of Dillon

Music has a way of elevating a summer evening, and the Dillon Amphitheater has become a favorite stage for unforgettable nights. Operated by the Town of Dillon, this open-air venue sits right along the water with views that compete with the performances themselves. The amphitheater hosts national touring acts as well as community events, blending small-town charm with big-stage excitement. Guests quickly realize why locals choose it as a gathering place — there’s something extraordinary about hearing live music while the sun sets over Lake Dillon and the peaks rise in the background.

Loveland Pass

Few drives can compete with the grandeur of Loveland Pass. At nearly 12,000 feet in elevation, it offers visitors panoramic views that stretch for miles and an unforgettable sense of altitude. The pass is steeped in history too, as it was once the only way across the Continental Divide before the Eisenhower Tunnel opened. For out-of-towners, the winding switchbacks and towering peaks make the journey an experience in itself, often punctuated by snowbanks that linger deep into summer. It’s a spot that makes an impression not just because of its beauty but because it so clearly showcases the rugged character of Colorado.

Sapphire Point Overlook

For those who prefer a quieter moment of grandeur, Sapphire Point Overlook delivers. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, this short, accessible trail leads to a perch above Dillon Reservoir where the Tenmile and Gore Ranges frame the water below. It’s popular for weddings and intimate gatherings, and it’s easy to see why — the view is cinematic no matter the season. Out-of-town guests often linger here, captivated by the sweeping landscape that feels both serene and vast. It’s one of those rare spots where a simple stop can become the highlight of a trip.

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