Caroline & Kevin
Things To Do
Restaurant Recommendations
Breakfast / Coffee Shops: - Coffee on the Rocks (one of Caroline & Kevin's favorites - will likely see elk!) - Kind Coffee - Inkwell & Brew - The Egg of Estes More Casual: - The Barrel - Ed's Cantina & Grill - Estes Thai - The Post Chicken & Beer - The Rock Inn Mountain Tavern A Bit More Elevated: - Ember Restaurant & Bar (one of Caroline & Kevin's favorites - beautiful views of Lake Estes!) - Cascades at The Stanley Hotel - Bird & Jim - The View - Casa Colina
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is a must see! The hiking options are endless, ranging from easy to technical. It's also extremely driveable, with beautiful scenery and the guarantee of seeing some wildlife, be it mule deer, elk, big horn sheep, or even a moose! PLEASE NOTE THAT A PARK PASS AND RESERVATION (one per car) ARE REQUIRED FOR ENTRANCE. These need to be procured in advance, so please see the website for detailed instructions on planning your visit to the Park.
Wildside 4x4 Tours
A great way to explore Rocky Mountain National Park without having to deal with the reservation system or navigate the winding mountain roads on your own! Your knowledgeable tour guide will take you up to 12,000 feet in elevation, where you'll see snow and wildlife along the way. The photos you'll come away with will be a priceless memory of your time in the Rockies!
Mustang Mountain Coaster
Fly around the curves and turns of an open air "mountain coaster" at whatever speed is comfortable for you! Suitable for everyone over the age of three. Check the website for information on pricing -- we recommend the three ride pass as once is not likely to be enough after you've experienced the thrill!
Estes Park 18-Hole Golf Course
Play a round in Paradise! We have one of the prettiest golf courses you'll ever see, surrounded entirely by mountains, and often covered in elk! Estes offers both an 18-hole course (with a driving range) and a 9-hole course that can also be used for Disc Golf -- this one is right by Lake Estes and also a big elk hangout. Both courses are public with reasonable green fees and available cart and club rentals. Call or go online to reserve a tee time!
Shopping in Downtown Estes Park
Estes Park is a tourist town, so there is no shortage of t-shirts, ice cream, and souvenirs. BUT, take a stroll along the river downtown and you will find so much more ... clothing stores offering everything from hiking gear to upscale women's wear, home decor, galleries featuring amazing (and often local) artwork/photography, and three (yes, 3!) Christmas shops. Estes is known for salt water taffy, and we suggest a stop at The Taffy Shop (choose the OG, since 1935!) where you can watch the taffy being pulled on the original machine and get a free sample to help you choose your favorite flavor.
Horseback Riding
Summer is perfect for trail riding in the Rockies! Estes has a number of stables that will take you out into Rocky Mountain National Park or other local trails!
Stanley Hotel
Yes, it's haunted, and it was the inspiration for Stephen King's iconic book, "The Shining." Tours are available, and it's fun to learn about the long and interesting history. Aside from the tours, we recommend simply going to explore the hotel as it's absolutely beautiful and has restaurants, bars and even a hedge maze!
Open Air Adventure Park
Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself on an aerial adventure, test your aim with ax throwing, or experience the beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park during our Hiking or kayaking tours, we’ve got something for everyone looking for an adventure in Estes Park, Colorado!
Estes Park Ride-A-Kart
Challenge your family and friends to a round of mini golf or bumper cars next to the river and surrounded by beautiful mountains! Lots of other activities including go-karts and bumper boats, plus local beer and wine.
The Qi Lounge Wellness Spa
Unwind at Qi Lounge & Spa at the Estes Park Resort. Overlooking Lake Estes and the Rockies, this peaceful spa offers massages, facials, and more—perfect for a relaxing break during the weekend.