Trish & Gary
Where to go and What to do In Grand Lake
Lariat Saloon
If you're looking for a place to hear some live music and just relax with a good drink, be sure to stop by the Lariat Saloon! This will most likely be the place for the unofficial second Welcome Event after the rehearsal dinner!
Sagebrush BBQ & Grill
Head to the Western-themed Sagebrush BBQ & Grill if you’re looking for dinner in the former category; the cow-print tablecloths and metal buckets of peanuts—the floor is accepted as the refuse pile for the shells—on the tables are kitschy enough to draw you in without even opening the extensive menu. (But when you do, order the locally raised trout or rack of ribs.)
O - A Bistro
Turn the tables the at O-a Bistro, an elegant café that offers a prix-fixe, multi-course dining experience. Meals start at two specific times, 5:30 and 7 p.m., so make reservations. **Located in the lower level of the Gateway Inn
Fat Cat Cafe
For breakfast, the Fat Cat Cafe has hearty, affordable lumberjack-style meals. The all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet at the Fat Cat Café can’t be beat for a morning pick-me-up. They also feature wonderful scones.
The Historic Rapids Lodge and Restaurant
For an upscale dinner, The Historic Rapids Lodge and Restaurant gets its name from its proximity to the Tonahutu River and the cascading rapids right outside the window. The sight and soothing sound of the flowing waters go quite well with the cuisine, which features items like seasonal beef tenderloin, ruby red trout, and elk medallions. Each entrée comes with a jumbo-sized shrimp cocktail and a salad — delicious!
Pancho & Lefty's
For relaxing with views of the lake along with some great Tex-Mex, I found Pancho and Lefty’s the place to go. I tried their chicken fajitas, which were enough for two, and their combination of lightly seasoned chicken together with their sautéed peppers was awesome. They also serve all manner of cocktails and are quite generous with the size of their beverages.
Rocky Mountain National Park Grand Lake Entrance
Want to see snow in June? Drive up the winding Trail Ridge Road for an amazing view. Sitting at 12,324 feet this view of the continental divide is only a glimpse at the vast Rocky Mountains that stretch from Canada to Mexico not to mention elk and moose! There is an entrance fee per car but if you have a National Parks pass you're all set! **Trail Ridge road JUST opened which means it's going to be an incredible trip on this road. Granted, the Colorado sunshine will be moving the snowmelt right along, however, check out this link for an idea of what you might see: https://denver.cbslocal.com/2019/06/07/trail-ridge-road-snow-estes-park-rocky-mountain-national-park/
Kayak Shak
Kayak Shak offers single and duo kayaks for those of you looking to chart your own waters.
SUP (Stand-Up Paddle Board) Rental
If you're feeling really adventurous, try Stand-Up Paddle Boarding! Rocky Mountain SUP is located on the waterside of Western Riviera Motel at 419 Garfield St. They offer lessons as well as SUP yoga!
Grand Lake Putt-Putt
A nice laid back activity for kids of all ages - including adult kids!
Grand Lake Golf Course
This course is called the Crown Jewel of the Rockies. This is a classic and quintessential Rocky Mountain golf at its best. Grand Lake’s beautifully maintained course designed by Dick Phelps with rolling fairways and subtle greens surrounded by lodge pole pines, aspens and colorful native flora, offers a world class setting with panoramic views of snowcapped mountains and Rocky Mountain National Park. Moose, elk, deer, fox, chipmunks and squirrels are often spectators during a round and add to a memorable, unique mountain golf experience. For sharpening up your skills, a driving range and putting green are available. Lessons are available from our professional staff. Facilities include a well stocked pro shop, complete with clubs, balls and a large selection of clothing and accessories.
Trail Ridge Marina
This is a great location to rent pontoon boats, fishing boats, paddle boards and kayaks.
Rocky Hi Speedway, Inc.
If you feel the need...the need for speed, then check out the Go Karts at Rocky Hi Speedway. Be sure to check the website for details regarding requirements and restrictions! There are also BUMPER CARS!
On the Trail Rentals
While not a SOUL from the wedding party will be allowed to check this adventure out (especially the groom!) this is a great way to check out the moutains and have a really great time! **Be sure to stop in most lodging spots and the information center right in town to see if there's a coupon available!
All Trails - a guide to hikes near Grand Lake
This site is a great resource for those of you who want to explore on foot. The site includes ratings, reviews, photos and rankings of hikes (easy, moderate, hard).