The major challenge facing Colorado in the 1980s and 90s was preserving environmental quality despite rapid economic and population growth. Manufacturing and services were key to the state's economy, along with tourism and farming (primarily livestock, plus corn, hay and wheat).

Famous Coloradans include astronaut M. Scott Carpenter, heavyweight boxing champ Jack Dempsey, First Lady Mamie Eisenhower, actor Douglas Fairbanks, Ute Indian Chief Ouray and U.S. Supreme Court Justice Byron R. White.

Once primarily a mining and agricultural state, Colorado's economy is now driven by the service industries, including medical providers and other business and professional services. Colorado's economy also has a strong manufacturing base. The primary manufactures are food products, printing and publishing, machinery, and electrical instruments. The state is also a communications and transportation hub for the Rocky Mountain region.

Breathtaking scenery and world-class skiing make Colorado a prime tourist destination. The main tourist attractions in the state include Rocky Mountain National Park, Curecanti National Recreation Area, Mesa Verde National Park, the Great Sand Dunes and Dinosaur National Monuments, Colorado National Monument, and the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Monument.