If you’ve ever stepped foot in Buena Vista, Colorado, you already know…it’s got something. Maybe it’s the way the mountains seem to hug the horizon, or the fact that strangers say good morning like they’ve known you for years. And if you’ve stayed with us at the Best Western Vista Inn, you know we’re not just here to give you a place to sleep. We’re here to be a part of your story!

That’s why we created this blog, Beyond the Stay. It’s your personal guide to all the magic, memories, and mountain-town charm that makes Buena Vista unforgettable. Think of it as your inside scoop from the folks who live it, love it, and are lucky enough to call it home.

So… what exactly is Beyond the Stay?

It’s more than a blog. It’s a peek behind the front desk, through the cafe doors, and straight into the heart of this corner of Colorado that we adore. We’re sharing stories that go deeper than check-in and check-out times—because the real Buena Vista experience starts once you toss your bags on the bed and head out to explore.

Here’s what you’ll find inside:

1. The History Behind the Hospitality

I will let you in on a little secret: the part of our property that now smells like fresh espresso and is decked out in seasonal cuteness? Yes, that used to be someone’s actual living room.

The View Café & Gifts wasn’t always a cafe or a boutique. It was once home to Carolyn, Brent, and their two kids, Sammi and Dylan. The same space where you can now sip Peet’s Coffee and browse Jellycats was once filled with homework on the counter, Christmas mornings in pajamas, and probably a few sibling squabbles over the remote.

When they opened the BW Vista Inn, it wasn’t just about creating a place to stay—it was about welcoming people into a space filled with the kind of warmth they lived every day. Hospitality runs in the family here, and that heart? You can still feel it in every check-in smile, piping hot macchiato, and every cozy corner of this place.

2. Buena Vista: Then & Now

From its early days as a dusty little mining town full of grit, gold, and survival-mode winters, BV has come a long way—but it’s still got that wild, wonderful mountain spirit. In the blog, we’ll take you back in time and then fast-forward to the present, where local artists, adventurers, and dreamers have turned it into one of Colorado’s most beloved hidden gems.

We’ll share old photos, cool local legends, and the kind of small-town history that makes you fall even more in love with where you’re standing. (Spoiler: there’s way more than just scenic views.)

3. The Best Things to Do in Buena Vista

Buena Vista is bursting with things to see, do, and fall in love with. We’ll be sharing our favorite trails with views that’ll stop you in your tracks, the best hot springs for a well-earned soak, and scenic drives so pretty you’ll be pulling over every few miles just to say, “Okay, this is the spot.”

Want to know where to grab snacks for a picnic? We’ll tell you. Looking for a quiet place to catch your breath (and maybe a rainbow)? We’ve got those too. And the best part? Some of the most magical moments here come from the unplanned ones—the turn-you-didn’t-mean-to-take or the little trail you decided to wander down just to see where it goes.

Buena Vista is full of those kinds of surprises. And we can’t wait to show you where to find them.

4. Local Events You Won’t Want to Miss

Okay, yes! The mountain views are jaw-dropping. But the real magic? That’s in the people!

Buena Vista might be small, but this town knows how to show up and celebrate. We’ve got events sprinkled all throughout the year that are just so BV…charmingly weird, full of heart, and guaranteed to leave you smiling.

Think: summer weekends at the farmers market, local parades where everyone knows everyone, and music festivals that make the mountains feel like a concert backdrop (because, well,  they kind of are).

So whether you’re planning ahead or just lucky enough to stumble into town during one of these gems, we’ll make sure you’re in the loop.

Because here in BV, the best stories usually start with “Wait… what’s going on over there?”

5. Life beyond the Room 

Let’s be honest: no one goes on vacation just to talk about the pillows (even if they’re super comfy). The memories you take home? They’re made out there—floating the Arkansas, laughing at dinner, catching that perfect golden-hour glow.

We’ll be sharing real guest stories, behind-the-scenes moments, and little slices of life that remind us what this is all about. This place isn’t just somewhere to stay—it’s where stories begin!

So whether you're planning your very first visit, counting down the days until your next one, or you've been here long enough to have a go-to spot for breakfast and the best place to catch sunset, just know this — we're so happy you're here.

Beyond the Stay isn't just a blog. It's our way of sharing the heart of Buena Vista. The people, the places, the stories, and all the little moments that make this town feel like home.

So grab a drink (we suggest a Peet’s Coffee), get comfy, and stick around. We’ve got so much to share with you, and we can’t wait to take you along for the ride.

Have a question, a favorite BV memory, or something you want us to write about? Drop us a comment. We’re all ears!