Colorado named 3rd most fun state: 7 reasons we're actually number one

DENVER – Colorado has been named the third most fun state in the country in what can only be described as a massive snub. We’re obviously number one.

A new report from financial services website WalletHub lists Nevada as the “most fun” state in the U.S., followed by South Dakota.

WalletHub looked a multitude of factors in entertainment, recreation and nightlife to come up with its list, including access to skiing facilities, weather, number of restaurants, amusement parks and movie theaters per capita and the amount of spending on parks and recreation.

Nevada at least makes sense, since it has Las Vegas and Lake Tahoe, but what does South Dakota really have to offer, besides Mount Rushmore? Come on, now.

Here are seven reasons why Colorado deserves the top spot:

1. The Rockies

There are lots of mountain ranges in the United States, but none quite as majestic as the Rockies. In fact, Pikes Peak inspired the “purple mountain majesties” line from ‘America the Beautiful.’ Enough said.

2. Endless outdoor fun

From the Rockies to the Western Slope and the plains, Colorado has no shortage of opportunities to get out and enjoy the great outdoors. Check out these 15 must-see locations to visit before you die. You won’t find them anywhere else!

3. Beer!

Not only is Colorado home to Coors Brewing, one of the biggest names in beer, but our fair state also is home to a huge selection of craft brewers. New Belgium, based in Fort Collins, is actually the fourth-largest craft brewer in the country in terms of sales volume.

4. Legal weed

Colorado was the first state in the U.S. to legalize the recreational use of marijuana. While that may be controversial, it’s no doubt a sign of Colorado’s easy-going nature that a majority of voters here think people should be able to enjoy the drug legally and safely.

5. Red Rocks

People come from all over to see – and hear – the amazing, naturally-formed Red Rocks Amphitheatre. With its unmatched acoustics and awe-inspiring rock formations, it’s no surprise that Red Rocks has hosted some of the biggest names in music for more than 75 years. See some of the top acts coming to Denver this year.

6. Amazing sports teams

Colorado is probably best known for the Super Bowl-winning Denver Broncos, but we have great teams in all the major sports: The Colorado Rockies (baseball), The Denver Nuggets (basketball), The Colorado Rapids (soccer), The Colorado Avalanche (ice hockey), and even two professional lacrosse teams – the Colorado Mammoth and the Denver Outlaws.

7. Lots and lots of sunshine

As the saying goes, Colorado gets 300 days of sunshine a year. That’s obviously an exaggeration, but we really do get a lot of sun in the Centennial State, and that makes it easy to get outside and enjoy all of what Colorado has to offer.

To see the full list of the supposedly “most fun” states, head over to wallethub.com.