Things To Do & Bites To Eat
Rocky Mountain National Park
Okay, we're basically making this mandatory. It's one of the most breathtaking places on earth and it's literally right there. Hike a trail, spot some elk, stare into the mountains and have a moment. You can thank us later. Just maybe don't do the hard hikes the day of the wedding — we need you functional. 🦌
The Stanley Hotel
Yes, THAT Stanley Hotel. The one that inspired The Shining. Is it haunted? Allegedly. Is it stunning and historic and worth a visit? Absolutely. Take a tour, grab a drink at the bar, and let us know if you see anything... unusual. We'll believe you. 👻
Mustang Mountain Coaster
Listen. We know you're adults. We know you came here for a wedding. But if you skip the mountain coaster you are genuinely making a mistake and we will be disappointed in you. It's fast, it's fun, and it will make you feel like a kid again. Do it. 🎢
Downtown Estes Park
Wander the little shops, grab some fudge (seriously, get the fudge), find a turquoise piece of jewelry you didn't know you needed, and just soak in the absolute charm of this town. It's walkable, it's adorable, and it will absolutely empty your wallet in the best way. 🛍️
Ed's Cantina & Grill
This place has a riverfront patio, the most dangerous avocado margaritas you will ever encounter, and bison enchiladas that we still think about regularly. We have been here together and we are basically already planning our next visit. Order the bison enchiladas. Order the avocado marg. Do not argue with us on this. 🌮🥑
Poppy's Pizza & Grill
Burgers, pizza, salads, soup — all easy on the wallet and served with a riverfront patio view that makes every bite taste better. This is our pick when we want a low-key lunch without thinking too hard about it. Dogs welcome on the patio, which automatically makes it a 10 out of 10. 🍕
Scratch Deli & Bakery
The sandwiches are so big that splitting one is not only acceptable, it is the wise and correct choice. House-cured pastrami, freshly baked bread, breakfast burritos, pecan rolls all incredible, all very grab-and-go friendly. Perfect pit stop before heading into the park. The pecan rolls sell out fast and we speak from experience on that one. 🥪
Big Horn Restaurant
We were told by approximately everyone we met in Estes Park to go here and they were not wrong. Open since 1972, huge portions, incredibly reasonable prices, and staff that feels like family by your second visit. Get the breakfast burrito or the biscuits and gravy before a big hike and thank us later. Open at 6am for you early birds. 🥞
The egg of estes
A true Estes Park institution and the kind of place that just feels right in a mountain town. Giant menu, fresh juices, eggs every way imaginable, warm cozy diner energy. Locals eat here constantly and honestly so do we when we want something reliable and really satisfying. It gets busy — that is how you know it is good. 🍳
Estes Park Memorial Observatory
Stargazing at 7,500 feet elevation with zero light pollution is something that will genuinely make you feel small in the best possible way. The observatory hosts evening programs and it is one of those experiences that sneaks up on you and becomes the highlight of the whole trip. Check availability in advance — spots go fast. ⭐🔭