We apologize for the inconvenience it may cause, but we would like to keep the ceremony and reception for adults only. Estes Park has many nanny services that you will be able to explore and choose for the wedding day. We are happy to have kids attend the Thursday welcome event. If you need help finding a babysitter, please consider using the below services! https://www.backupcarecolorado.com/event-childcare https://www.care.com/app/enrollment/seeker/cc/v2/care-who
May 15th, 2024!
For those flying, we recommend flying into Denver International Airport. Estes Park is an hour and a half drive from the airport. We recommend renting a car or hiring a car service ahead of time.
Parking is limited and first come first serve! Ubers are difficult to get in Estes Park as it is a small mountain town. We recommended staying at hotels that are walking distance to the venue (see Travel section) to help with parking limitations. If you are staying outside walking distance, you can schedule Ubers or car services ahead of time.
Estes Park sits at 7,552 feet above seal level! So for those not acclimated to the altitude, there are three tips you should remember: Hydrate! Hydrate! Hydrate! We recommend you drink lots of water the week before arriving and continue doing so your first few days in Colorado (LiquidIV and Pedialyte when you arrive are great options and proven effective). Common symptoms of altitude sickness include nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath and exhaustion. Take it easy your first day in Estes Park as your body may be getting used to the elevation. Warning ahead of the party! Altitude can lower your alcohol tolerance and may effect you quicker than you're used to. Be advised!
Estes Park is a true "choose your own adventure" town! If you aren't into outdoor activities, take a walk up and down the river where there are loads of boutiques and restaurants. We personally love the Avocado Margaritas at Ed's Cantina and shopping at the year-round Christmas stores. Those looking for outdoor adventures, Estes Park is the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, which features trails of all levels - from ADA-accessible walks to treacherous "14ers" - as well as spectacular scenic drives. Before you ask, no, you should not attempt a 14er. You can download AllTrails App and select from hundreds of hikes that range from beginner to expert. Outside of RMNP, Estes is also along the Fall River which is great for fishing & kayaking and the YMCA resort offers lots of family activities and even has a dog park that Banksy highly recommends. Take a look at the "Things to do" section of the website for inspiration.
You’re going to see some cool animals while you’re here. Be aware that while they may look cute and they’re very photogenic, they are still wild animals so you’ll want to keep your distance. Within the town, you are guaranteed to see LOTS of elk! These beasts run the show in Estes Park. Be warned that they are not scared of humans and will not move for cars. Keep an eye out for them, they may pop up in front of your hotel room, in a parking lot and there will be herds grazing in any open land they can find. Rocky Mountain National Park is also home to hundreds of animal species, including the aforementioned elk, moose, black bears, big horn sheep, mountain lions, bald eagles, and other wildlife.
It should be very pleasant in Estes Park, as it typically is in Colorado as a whole. Expect temperatures in the 70s (or possibly the 60s) during the day and early evenings. These aren’t typical sizzling summer temperatures due to the higher altitude. Then expect it to cool down starting at about 7 p.m. or so. It can get into the 40s and 50s in the early morning hours (for those who like an early start or a very late evening).
No! The only entrance fee you will pay is to get into the national park. Fall River and Estes Park sit outside the entrance of the park.