Things to do in Telluride for the film festival experience

Things to do in Telluride: A celebration of film and mountain living

The Telluride Film Festival transforms this Colorado mountain town into a magnet for film lovers, industry insiders, and tastemakers every Labor Day weekend. While the event draws some of the world's most acclaimed filmmakers and an audience that grows the town's population threefold, the real magic lies in how it blends cinematic excellence with the vibrant energy and refined comforts of Telluride. For those seeking more than just film, the festival weekend offers a trove of experiences — from alpine adventures to fine dining and exclusive gatherings — all set against a dramatic mountain backdrop. If you're searching for things to do in Telluride beyond the festival, discover how Telluride luxury homes and Pacaso co-ownership elevate this storied event into an unforgettable lifestyle experience.

Telluride’s luxury homes are nestled within breathtaking mountain scenery, setting the stage for extraordinary film festival experiences.

Telluride Film Festival highlights

Since its inception in 1974, the Telluride Film Festival has been known as an international stage for cinematic storytelling. The 2025 edition will host film premieres, Q&A sessions with directors and actors, and immersive virtual reality presentations. This is where Oscar winners have made their debut, with films like 'Moonlight' and 'Brokeback Mountain' first lighting up Telluride’s screens. Attendees can expect thoughtfully curated screenings, intimate conversations with visionary filmmakers, and access to both lively public events and invitation-only soirées. It’s a rare chance to be part of the season’s most anticipated premieres amidst the charm of a historic mountain town.

Essential things to do in Telluride during the festival

While the films take center stage, Telluride offers a full spectrum of ways to indulge your senses. Here are a few things to do in Telluride during the Telluride Film Festival:

Stroll the Telluride Historic District, a National Historic Landmark, to admire its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and vibrant boutiques.
Ride the iconic free gondola to Mountain Village for panoramic scenery and seamless access between festival venues.
Enjoy chef-driven dining at acclaimed local restaurants, from intimate bistros to energetic après spots.
Explore mountain trails, either with a morning hike before screenings or a sunset walk along the San Miguel River Trail.
Indulge in private tastings at local wine bars or craft breweries, a favorite for pre-event gatherings.

Beyond the festival itinerary, other favorite things to do in Telluride include fly fishing, gallery hopping, and soaking in the nearby hot springs — making it a destination worth returning to throughout the year.

The gondola above Telluride is a signature experience for festival-goers, linking venues and mountain escapes with iconic views.

Luxury living and hospitality during festival season

True festival insiders know that your basecamp can transform the entire experience. Telluride luxury homes redefine hosting — with spaces that are as cinematic as the event itself. High-end homes in Mountain Village and beyond are designed for effortless entertaining, relaxation, and privacy. Whether you’re gathering with friends for a post-premiere toast, escaping for a quiet morning with mountain views, or simply seeking a retreat between screenings, Pacaso co-ownership ensures you have access to the area’s most coveted homes — and the freedom to enjoy them whenever inspiration strikes. For those interested in things to do in Telluride outside of festival season, these homes provide the perfect base for year-round adventure.In addition to spacious interiors and striking architecture, Telluride luxury homes often include amenities like private saunas, gourmet kitchens, ski-in/ski-out access, and media lounges — the ideal setting to continue the film experience in your own curated space.

Crystal’s expansive living room, floor-to-ceiling windows, and prime location near the Mountain Village gondola station make it an extraordinary retreat after a day of film screenings and events.

Crystal is just steps from the Mountain Village gondola station, making it easy to move between festival highlights and your private elegant home base. With a vaulted great room and inviting media lounge, you can host your own screenings or unwind after a day packed with cinematic discoveries. Crystal is fully furnished and expertly decorated, offering exceptional comfort during the town’s most celebrated weekend.

Mountain Village’s outdoor fire pit creates an inviting place for evening conversations, ideal for festival guests to gather and swap film recommendations under the stars.

Mountain Village offers a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces. Its fire pit and mountain-view deck become a social hub — perfect for ending a festival day with friends and fellow film fans, surrounded by the Colorado night sky. Explore the possibilities with Mountain Village, where every detail is curated for comfort and connection.

Why co-ownership is the ultimate festival upgrade

For those who value exclusivity and flexibility, Pacaso’s co-ownership model opens the door to Telluride’s most sought-after homes — without the burdens of traditional ownership. Arrive to a fully prepared, professionally managed home just in time for the Telluride Film Festival, and leave knowing every detail is cared for, so you can focus on the art, the company, and the adventure. For those curious about different home types or the value of second home ownership over repeated festival travel, explore how Pacaso makes it effortless to enjoy the Telluride lifestyle.

Experience the best of Telluride with Pacaso

This year, make the Telluride Film Festival part of your own story. Explore Telluride for available Pacaso homes or browse the full mountain homes collection to find your match. Whether you’re ready to enjoy premiere week in style or dream of spontaneous mountain escapes all year long, Pacaso gives you the keys to a lifestyle where film, hospitality, and natural beauty converge. Learn more about co-ownership and how to maximize your festival and second home experiences by discovering the pros and cons of fractional ownership, or see how your dream aligns with reality using the Second Home Calculator. The Telluride Film Festival is just the beginning — let Pacaso be your entry to a world of art and alpine adventure.Note: This article was generated with the help of an AI agent and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and clarity.

Things to do in Telluride for a luxe festival escape