Amanda & Timothy
Things To Do
Rocky Mountain National Park
Timed entry reservation is required but there's a reason it's at the top of this list! A must-see if you've never been. A must-see even if you have been!
Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
Sandwiched between Denver and the airport, this wildlife refuge includes a ~30-45 minute scenic drive as well as numerous walking trails. The resident bison herd is often seen on the drive and we've personally seen them right in front of our car!
Peak To Peak Scenic Byway
If you want to see some amazing scenery from a well-paved and winding mountain road, Highway 7 and Highway 72 are a must. Highway 7 from Lyons to Estes Park is one of the best drives for scenery - from the St. Vrain Creek the road follows to the peaks of Rocky Mountain National Park. A very easy drive and one of our favorites. We've driven it countless times and it never gets old.
Estes Park
The gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. Loads of restaurants and shops with a river running right through the downtown area. A great place to spend the day. P.S. - Stay in the haunted room 217 at the Stanley Hotel! (Tim is too scared to do this so check it out for us and report back...)
Idaho Springs
One of our go-to mountain town day trips. Only 45 minutes from Boulder or Denver (with awesome scenery along most of the drive). Lots of cool restaurants, breweries, shops, and a cool mining museum.
Nederland
Another favorite go-to mountain town day trip. So many places to eat and drink here but here are a few of our favorites - Knotted Root Brewing Company, Very Nice Brewing Company, and Busey Brews Smokehouse & Brewery. So many hiking trails around here as well.
Avery Brewing Company
Within walking distance from our apartment, there's a reason we take everyone here when they visit. The food menu is just as good as the beer menu!
Howlin Wind Brewing & Blending
Pretty far off the beaten path, but such a unique place. Brewery with some unique pours and equally unique locals. Can't beat the scenery around it though.
Spirit Hound Distillers
A great little local distillery with a wide variety of options. We love all their offerings and have given them as gifts on many occasions. Highly recommend!
Bear Creek Distillery
Our favorite distillery when we lived in Denver. We continue to buy their stuff and give it as gifts. Awesome cocktails in their tasting room and great merch.
Bar Dough
Our favorite restaurant in Denver. Possibly our favorite restaurant ever. The menu rotates somewhat regularly and we've only ever had excellent meals here. (Reservations are a must.)
Santo
Our favorite restaurant in Boulder! We haven't tried the whole menu (yet) but have yet to find a dish or cocktail we didn't like.
The Buff
Our favorite place to take visitors for breakfast or lunch.
The Post Chicken & Beer
There are multiple locations of The Post so pick whichever one is more convenient for you. But it's always good!
Lucile's Creole Cafe
There are a few locations of Lucile's but it's one of our go-to brunch spots.
Renegado Tacos and Margaritas
If you want some great food on the way to the airport, this is it.
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
We can't recommend a concert at Red Rocks enough. If you can't catch a show at Red Rocks, the next best thing is walking around the venue which is open to the public! Loads of hiking trails of all skill levels are around this park as well. Can't beat this scenery so close to Denver.
NCAR Mesa Laboratory
Something a little different, the NCAR (National Center for Atmospheric Research) is located in the foothills above Boulder and offers a free, self-guided exhibit showcasing weather and climate. It's very well done and surprisingly fun! A great way to kill an hour or two.
Meow Wolf Denver | Convergence Station
"All Ages Interactive Art Experience in the Heart of Denver, CO. Discover Immersive Psychedelic, Mind-Bending Art - Step Into a Different Dimension." <-- Taken from the MeowWolf website. It's hard to put this unique place into words. You have to see it for yourself!
Denver Botanic Gardens
One of our favorite places in Denver. So many unique flowers and landscapes are on display here.
Pearl Street Mall
Lots of shops and restaurants line and surround this outdoor mall. A bit touristy but is so for a reason - there are tons of places to check out in this area! Also has some cool thrift and vintage shops just off the mall.