Mountain town of 300 residents dubbed 'best hidden gem' in Colorado

Colorado is home to plenty of well-known destinations, but an often overlooked town of about 300 residents was recently highlighted in a report from popular publication Cheapism.

The feature was part of a Cheapism list that sought to highlight the best 'hidden gem' in each state, looking at the "often overshadowed, lesser-known oddities."

Creede was named Colorado's best-hidden gem. Located in Mineral County, the small town sits at about 8,800 feet and is home to about 300 people. Creede has origins as a mining boomtown and still has the "rugged spirit, vibrant energy, and monuments of the Wild West."

As well as a "charming downtown seemingly carved into the surrounding mountains," Creede has a thriving art scene. Founded in 1966 as an effort to stimulate business activity in the town, the Creede Repertory Theatre is a nationally recognized theatre that now serves over 20,000 during its summer season.

Creede also provides opportunities to learn about the town's history and mining. The Creede Underground Mining Museum shows visitors the lives of miners underground with exhibits in tunnels and rooms inside a mountain. The Creede Historical Museum has memorabilia from the area, and the Last Chance Mine is an 1891 silver mine that includes old buildings, and rock and mineral collecting.

Check out Cheapism's full list of each state's best 'hidden gem' here .

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