Things To Do
Garden of the Gods
The 300 million years of geological history of the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs reveal one of the most extensive pictures of earth history found anywhere in the United States. It is a true geological wonder. There are 15 miles of trails in the park. The Perkins Central Garden Trail is a 1 1/2 mile paved trail that is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Pikes Peak Cog Railway Peak Station
The Pikes Peak Cog Railway is a unique train journey that takes passengers to the summit of Pikes Peak ( standing at 14,115 feet). It's the world's highest cog railway, offering a 9-mile climb to the peak, providing a unique and historical experience.
Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Red Rocks is a geologically formed, open-air amphitheatre not duplicated anywhere in the world. With Mother Nature as the architect, the design of the amphitheatre consists of two 300-foot monoliths (Ship Rock and Creation Rock).Red Rocks Park is a Denver Mountain Park with a variety of trails located within the park. Hiking and walking can be enjoyed on various trials throughout the park such as The Geologic Overlook Trail, Trading Post Trail, Funicular Trail, and Mt. Vernon Creek Trail. Trails are located approximately 6,280 feet above sea level and vary in difficulty.
Dinosaur Ridge
Dinosaur Ridge is part of the Morrison-Golden Fossil Areas National Natural Landmark located just east of Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. A panel of esteemed paleontologists ranks Dinosaur Ridge the top dinosaur tracksite in North America, and one of the top such sites in the world. See more than 250 fossil tracks at this outdoor museum!
Denver Botanic Gardens
Denver Botanic Gardens presents a wide range of gardens and collections on 24 acres that illustrate an ever-widening diversity of plants from all corners of the world. Distinctive gardens define and celebrate a Western identity and a unique high-altitude climate and geography.
Denver Art Museum
The Denver Art Museum has an encyclopedic collection of more than 70,000 diverse works from across the centuries and world. The DAM is one of the largest art museums between the West Coast and Chicago.
Denver Zoo
The Denver Zoo occupies an 80-acre campus within City Park. This urban field station houses over 2,500 animals representing a diverse range of species.
Chautauqua Park (Flatirons)
Chautauqua Park in Boulder, Colorado, is a popular area with a variety of hiking trails, most notably the Chautauqua Trail, which provides scenic views of the Flatirons. There are easy to hard hikes here, anything from a leisurely stroll to a challenging trek. Boulder (home of CU Boulder) is a fun town to shop in as well!
Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway
This requires timed entry! The Mount Blue Sky (formerly Mount Evans) Scenic Byway climbs more than 7,000 feet in just 28 miles, reaching an altitude of 14,130 feet. At the summit you'll enjoy the big picture - the entire Front Range sprawls at your feet.
Rocky Mountain National Park
If you are looking to extend your stay, this national park is a great choice. However, as one of the busiest and most popular national parks in the nation, book your timed entry passes to Bear Meadows and hotels in Estes Park EARLY! Hike the trail to Emerald lake from Bear Meadows... it is one of the most beautiful hikes we've ever done AND it is where we got engaged!
Glenwood Springs
a few hours from Denver but a great stay if you're going into the mountains!
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
4 hours from Denver but one of the most unique national parks - and best star gazing!
Aspen
A mountain town 4 hours from Denver but close to some of the best wilderness in CO. Check out Maroon Bells wilderness and trail (timed entry required- book in advance!). Wildflower season will just be starting in late June.
Ouray and Telluride
These towns in the stunning San Juan mountains are described as the Switzerland of Colorado!
Hanging Lake Trailhead
A stunning lake at the top of this hike! This is a very popular hike and timed entry is required- book in advance!
The Stanley Hotel
Inspired Stephen King to write The Shining
Roxborough State Park
Close to Denver and a great hike
Larimer Square
Downtown Denver and nearby is the Denver aquarium, Coors field, nice restaurants, and lots of activities to do
Little Man Ice Cream
Erika's favorite sweet treat
Mount Princeton Hot Springs
Wonderful hot springs surrounded by the mountains