Plan a romantic getaway or a family vacation to one of the top Colorado destinations including Boulder, Aspen, Denver, Colorado Springs, Fort Collins, Steamboat Springs, Estes Park, Telluride, Durango and Crested Butte. Whether you are looking to get away to the mountains or spend your weekend enjoying attractions in a fun city, there are many family-friendly vacation ideas and romantic getaways in Colorado. CDC information for travelers. Hours/availability may have changed.
1.The Little Nell, Aspen
The Little Nell is a stylish ski-in-ski-out resort located at the base of beautiful Aspen Mountain. The gorgeous resort, which offers convenient access to the Silver Queen Gondola and top area attractions such as the Aspen Art Museum, was recently completely renovated by Chicago-based designer Holly Hunt and New York firm Champalimaud, ushering in a new era of posh luxury. 92 guest rooms and suites offer amenities such as Lavazza Blue espresso makers, 48-inch flat screen televisions, a video-on-demand system, and Bose bluetooth speakers, with complimentary minibar snacks and regional and national newspapers refreshed daily. Upscale dining experiences at the five-star, five-diamond resort include the iconic Ajax Tavern, element 47 and a carefully-cultivated 20,000-bottle wine cellar. Other amenities include a heated outdoor pool and whirlpool, beautifully landscaped gardens, and a health center with spa treatments.
2. St Julien Hotel in Downtown Boulder - 45 minutes from Denver
Plan a weekend of pampering and relaxation at St Julien Hotel in downtown Boulder. The hotel features a 10,000-square-foot spa with 12 treatment rooms, and a two-lane infinity pool with a whirlpool and outside terrace. Guests can get in shape at the fitness center with the latest cardiovascular and aerobic equipment. Choose from 201 rooms and suites with luxury bathrooms with soaking tubs and separate glass showers. Ask for a view of the Flatiron Mountains when you book your stay. All rooms offer complimentary Internet access, wired and wireless.
The Signature Jill's Restaurant has an outdoor terrace with mountain views and serves contemporary American & French cuisine with organic ingredients. The T-Zero Lounge serves signature martinis, cocktails and fine wine. Live entertainment is offered almost every night. If you are celebrating a special occasion, the private dining room can seat up to 25 guests. The terrace can be reserved for private parties in the summer. Room rates start at $249 per night. Things to Do in Boulder
900 Walnut St., Boulder, Colorado 80302, Phone: 877-303-0900
3. The Oxford Hotel in Denver
The Oxford Hotel in downtown Denver offers vacationers historic accommodations, a great spa, fitness center and a gourmet restaurant. Each room and suite at the hotel is individually furnished, featuring unique touches such as antique headboards and romantic claw foot tubs. Plush amenities include flat-screen HD TVs and Bose radios with an iPod docking station. Stay in touch while traveling by connecting through complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi on your phone, tablet or laptop. The Corner Room is especially romantic, letting you enjoy the view of the street below through floor-to-ceiling windows.
The Oxford Club, Spa & Salon offers a full range of services, whether you are looking for a classical massage or a revitalizing facial. Head to the fitness center to work out with a Personal Trainer, practice yoga, take a spinning class or go indoor rowing. The salon at The Oxford is one of the best places in town for a haircut, blowout and highlights. The Urban Farmer Steakhouse by Sage Restaurant Group is scheduled to open in the summer of 2017. Before dinner, have drinks at the Cruise Room Martini Bar decorated in fun Art Deco style. Hotel guests receive complimentary Escalade car service within a two mile radius. Rooms start at USD $200 per night. Next read: 25 Best Things to Do in Denver and 15 Best Romantic Restaurants in Denver, one of the top Colorado destinations.
1600 17th Street, Denver, Colorado 80202, hone: 303-628-5400
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4. The Leland House and Rochester Hotel
The Leland House and Rochester Hotel are family-owned historic hotels with an authentic Western theme. The 14 rooms at the Rochester Hotel are themed after Westerns that were filmed in the Durango area. Each of the 12 accommodations in the Leland House is named after a historic Durangoan and is decorated with that person’s memorabilia, biographies and photos. All rooms have Wi-Fi, cable, Aveda products, complimentary gourmet breakfast and free Cruiser bike rentals. Grab a drink at the Rochester Bar which serves the hotel’s signature Rochester wine.
Special events, concerts, and intimate celebrations are held at the Rochester Secret Garden. Each morning, a gourmet breakfast is served with menu items such as French toast with raspberries or fresh basil and feta scramble. The hotel is located in Durango, Colorado, a small town surrounded by mountains on the Animas River. Hotel guests are moments away from whitewater rafting, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, skiing and snowboarding. Studios start from $129, rooms from $169 per night. Best Things to Do in Durango
726 East 2nd Avenue, Durango, Colorado 81301, Phone: 970-385-1920
5.The Sebastian
The Sebastian is a luxurious hotel located within the heart of popular Colorado ski village Vail, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains within the majestic Arapaho National Forest. The resort, which offers direct skiing access to Vail Mountain Gondola One station, features beautifully-appointed guest rooms and suites decked out with top amenities such as flat screen televisions, DVD players, Nespresso machines, and iPod docking stations. Some upgraded rooms add kitchenettes, private living rooms, and cozy fireplaces, along with balconies overlooking the area's beautiful mountain scenery. A wide variety of visitor amenities are provided on site for all guests, including a newly-renovated all-ages gaming room, a contemporary art-stocked library area, a state-of-the-art fitness center, an upscale spa, and year-round heated pool and hot tub areas. Guests can dine at the hotel's signature Leonora restaurant, which serves up gourmet American dishes crafted from locally-sourced ingredients, or enjoy beer, wine, and spirits from its full-service Frost bar.
16 Vail Rd, Vail, CO 81657, Phone: 970-331-0698
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6. Blue Lake Ranch Bed and Breakfast
Set on 200 beautiful acres, Blue Lake Ranch Bed & Breakfast near Durango, Colorado, is the perfect getaway for those who want to get away from it all. Take romantic walks through the flower gardens and gaze across the trout-filled lake on your vacation.
Guests are accommodated in charming cottages and houses, surrounded by flowers. Room rates start at $139 per night, including a delicious homemade breakfast.
16919 CO 140, Durango (Hesperus), Colorado 81326, Phone: 970-385-4537
7. Taharaa Mountain Lodge - 1 hour 30 minutes from Denver
If you are looking for romantic mountain getaways in Colorado, Taharaa Mountain Lodge in Estes Park, Colorado is a beautiful country lodge just minutes from the Rocky Mountain National Park. Set on five acres, the lodge offers vacationers nine rooms and nine suites with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Guest room decor incorporates natural elements from the region. Each room and suite has floor-to-ceiling windows, fireplace and a panoramic outdoor deck, perfect for savoring the view. Ask for one of the suites with a whirlpool tub if you are planning a romantic getaway or a honeymoon in Colorado. The lodge has a sauna and a cozy massage room where guests can enjoy a variety of treatments, such as aromatherapy, hot stone massage and facials. Rooms start at $159 per night. Delicious morning breakfast and evening happy hour are included in the cost of your stay. Best Things to Do in Estes Park
3110 South Saint Vrain Ave., Estes Park, Colorado 80517,Phone: 970-577-0098
, From LA8.Colorado vacations: Della Terra Mountain Chateau
Della Terra Mountain Chateau is one of Estes Park's premiere boutique inns and wedding venues, located at the Fall River entrance of the majestic Rocky Mountain National Park. The 14-acre chateau is a perfect spot for romantic getaways, offering rustic mountain lodge decor in 14 luxury guest rooms and suites. All rooms offer mountain views from private balconies and top amenities such as soaking tubs, walk-in showers, flat screen televisions, and complimentary wireless internet. Private rental cabins are also available, offering additional space with kitchenettes and hot tubs. All suite guests receive free daily breakfast service in the resort's dining room, with signature drinks and light bites served up at the chateau's Loft Bar. Luxury onsite amenities include the Essence Spa, a dry heat sauna, a beauty salon, a movie theater room, and a relaxing lounge with a two-story fireplace and waterfall.
3501 Fall River Rd, Estes Park, CO 80517, Phone: 970-586-2501
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9.The Elizabeth Hotel
The Elizabeth Hotel is a lovely Fort Collins hotel located within walking distance of major area attractions, including the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery and the Global Village Museum of Arts. The sophisticated Old Town hotel, which anchors the city's Firehouse Alley district, is home to country-chic 164 guest rooms and suites that offer upscale amenities such as 49-inch flat screen televisions, complimentary wireless internet, and private balconies with mountain and city views. Upgraded themed suites feature in-room pianos, record players, private living space, or university-themed decorations. At the hotel's onsite Emporium Kitchen and Wine Market, guests can enjoy charcuterie prepared in house, served up alongside gourmet sandwiches and pizzas. Other amenities include the Magic Rat live music venue, the rooftop Sunset Lounge, and an outpost of Bowerbird Coffee.
111 Chestnut St, Fort Collins, CO 80524, Phone: 970-490-2600
10. Colorado vacations: Castle Marne Bed & Breakfast
A romantic weekend at the Castle Marne Bed and Breakfast on Capitol Hill in Denver will transport you to more elegant and romantic times with its nine magnificent rooms accented by antique Victorian furniture, fine décor, canopy beds, and fluttering curtains. Of course, they all have modern bathrooms with whirlpool or claw foot bathtubs and other contemporary amenities you simply cannot do without.
Stroll through this magnificent historic 1889 mansion and have a hot breakfast at the Peacock Dining Room or afternoon tea in the Victorian Parlor. Take a walk through the mansion’s spectacular gardens and sit on one of the old stone benches to smell the roses before returning to the reality of daily life.
1572 Race Street, Denver, Colorado 80206, Phone: 303-331-0621
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11. Colorado getaways: The Stanley Hotel
The Stanley Hotel is a luxurious hotel in the heart of Estes Park in Colorado that combines a particular style and sophistication with rich colonial charm. Featuring deluxe resort lodging, an exclusive day spa and wellness center, and an array of adventures and activities for the whole family, this hotel is the ideal place for a year-round mountain vacation. Guests can choose from deluxe rooms and suites at the main hotel or accommodations next door at the newly remodeled 40-room boutique hotel called The Lodge.
Larger groups and families on longer stays can choose to stay in private, fully-equipped condos overlooking the park, all of which feature spacious living areas, superior facilities, and a complimentary gourmet breakfast each day. Dine in style at one of four restaurants and bars that serve an array of seasonal cuisine, unwind in the exclusive Aspire Spa with an indulgent treatment or massage, and enjoy a range of fantastic outdoor activities throughout the year, including hiking, biking, fishing, horseback riding, skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and sleighing. Read more about Estes Park, one of the top Colorado destinations.
333 Wonderview Avenue, Estes Park, CO 80517, Phone: 1-800-976-1377
12.Weekend getaways in Colorado: Bella Vista
Bella Vista is a gorgeous family-friendly overnight accommodation estate in Steamboat Springs, offering breathtaking 360-degree views from its location above the Yampa River Valley near the spectacular Flat Top Mountains range. The estate, which is set within National Forest land, offers unparalleled views of surrounding natural attractions such as Lake Catamount, the Pleasant Valley, and the majestic Continental Divide. The luxurious Rocky Mountain resort experience offers sleeping arrangements for up to 28 guests in 12 bedrooms, with 10.5 bathrooms and four fully-equipped kitchens available on site for guest use. Accommodations include a great room entertainment center, a full-house audio system with XM satellite radio and iPod hookup, a full wet saloon bar, and a game room with pool and foosball tables and video games. Outside on the estate's seven-acre landscaped grounds, guests can make use of a 20x40' in-ground swimming pool, outdoor fire pit, and tennis and basketball courts.
31095 E US Hwy 40, Steamboat Springs CO 80487, Phone: 970-879-4449
13.Colorado vacations: Hotel Monaco Denver
The boutique Hotel Monaco Denver is a luxury getaway in Denver, decorated with rich colors, custom-designed furnishings and lush materials. The hotel offers complimentary pet services and amenities such as a doggie mat, in-room bowl and a dog park map. If you decide to leave your favorite pet at home, the hotel can provide you with a complimentary goldfish upon request to keep you company during your stay. There are 189 deluxe guestrooms and suites, all with high-speed Internet access, a coffee maker with Starbucks Coffee, CD player, and a mini-bar.
If you are planning a romantic trip, ask for one of the Mediterranean suites which have two-person whirlpool tubs. For the basketball players in the family, Tall Rooms with extra-long beds and heightened showerheads are also available. Panzano is a 210-seat Italian restaurant serving a selection of gourmet dishes. The hotel is located in the heart of Denver's central business district and is within easy walking distance of 16th Street Mall, lower downtown and Larimer Square. Rates start at around $115 per night.
1717 Champa Street, Denver, Colorado 80202, Phone: 800-990-1303
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14.Colorado vacation spots: The Dove Inn
The Dove Inn is a longstanding bed and breakfast institution in Golden, housed within a Victorian-style house dating back to 1866 which offers convenient access to area attractions such as the Red Rocks Amphitheatre and the Colorado School of Mines. The charming B&B facility offers recently-renovated rooms with elegant Victorian decor, featuring en suite bathrooms, flat screen televisions, writing desks, and complimentary wireless internet. Upgraded suites offer private sitting areas and cozy fireplaces, creating a romantic ambiance for couples. Self-service continental breakfast is offered daily for all guests, showcasing hearty and health-conscious menu items such as yogurt, granola, and pastries paired with coffee from popular local roasters. Other guest amenities include a common sitting room and library and a landscaped garden.
711 14th St, Golden, CO 80401, Phone: 720-608-1714
15.The Gant Aspen - 4 hours 10 minutes from Denver
The Gant is one of the best romantic getaways for couples who like the flexibility of staying in a luxury condominium hotel located at the base of Aspen Mountain. The resort has two heated outdoor swimming pools, three hot tubs, five tennis courts, barbecue grills and laundry facilities. Summer activities in Aspen include whitewater rafting, fly fishing, golf, horseback riding, jeep tours, hot air balloon rides, parasailing and mountain biking. In the winter, plan a ski trip, snowboarding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, sleigh rides, snowcat powder tours and ice skating.
Choose from one, two, three and four bedroom condominiums with wood-burning fireplaces, private balconies, fully equipped kitchens and daily housekeeping, ideal for a family ski getaway. In the summer, enjoy scenic nature views. More about The Gant and things to do in Aspen, one of the top Colorado destinations.
610 S. West End, Aspen, Colorado 81611, Phone: 970-925-5000
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16.Colorado weekend trips: Dunton Hot Springs
Dunton Hot Springs is a luxury hideaway with authentic nineteenth century hand-hewn log cabins and a bath house with natural hot springs in Colorado. Dunton attracts outdoor adventure enthusiasts as well as guests who are looking for a quiet place to relax in natural surroundings. The cabins are located in the San Juan Range of the Colorado Rockies 8,700 feet above sea levels. Guests have access to a two story library and an open-air wedding chapel. Visitors can keep in touch with the outside world through high speed wireless internet access and video conferencing.
Spa facilities are quite unique - hot springs are housed in the teepee and bath house, while the massage and yoga rooms are located in the Pony Express Stop. Direct feeds from geothermal springs in some of the guest cabins are even more surprising and a fun adventure honeymoon idea. Spa treatments offered at the spa include wraps, reflexology, Trager Therapy, hot rocks massage and other holistic and therapeutic healing techniques. The resort is situated near the Four Corners and in the midst of two national forests where you can enjoy hiking, climbing, snow-shoeing, back country skiing, heli-skiing and fly fishing on your adventure honeymoon.
The saloon serves all meals using organically grown local ingredients, including lamb, fruit and vegetables. Local and international wines complement the meals. Throughout the year, Dunton offers special programs, such as Fly Fishing School, Yoga Retreats and Equestrian Adventure. Ask about special programs and packages when booking. The resort is located one hour from Telluride and Cortez, two hours from Durango, 7 hours from Denver, and 5 hours from Santa Fe, New Mexico. Rates start from $1,100 per night for a cabin, including all meals, non-alcoholic beverages and unlimited use of hot springs. The entire town and its facilities can be rented exclusively for $10,000 per day and can accommodate 34 people. All meals, non alcoholic beverages and unlimited use of the library, screening room, and hot springs are included.
52068 Road 38, Dolores, Colorado 81323, Phone: 970-882-4800
17. Weekend getaways in Colorado: The Curtis in Denver
Head to Denver, Colorado where you can see shows, visit museums and sample new flavors at gourmet restaurants. The Curtis – a DoubleTree by Hilton is a boutique hotel with 336 innovative accommodations, a retro dining experience and a state-of-the-art fitness center. The Bigger Better Deal Rooms offer 350 square feet of living space and views of downtown Denver. There are three types of suites to choose from: a KISS Suite, a Rolling Stones Suite and a suite dedicated to the Spice Girls. Guests can also stay in a “Hyper Themed” room on each of the 13 themed floors, such as the Jimmy Buffett Suite and the Ghostbusters Suite.
All rooms include large desks, 26-inch flat screen TVs, same day laundry and dry cleaning service. Stay fit by working out at the fitness center which is open 24/7. The Corner Office Restaurant + Martini Bar serves a fresh global menu and creative cocktails. The hotel is located across the street from the Denver Performing Arts Complex, a block from the Colorado Convention Center and two blocks from 16th Street Mall. Rooms start at $249 per night.
1405 Curtis Street, Denver, Colorado 80202, Phone: 303-571-0300
18. Colorado vacation ideas: Dove Inn
Built in 1866, the historic Dove Inn is a quiet, private bed and breakfast a block from Golden's Main Street that provides an ideal getaway for both business and leisure travelers. The inn offers a choice of luxurious guest rooms to suit every taste from historical accommodations overlooking the inn’s beautiful gardens to luxury rooms for the discerning traveler to multi-purpose rooms for larger families and group travelers.
Rooms are beautifully decorated with plush furnishings and luxurious fabrics and boast private en-suite bathrooms and modern amenities, including air-conditioning, coffeemakers, and free high-speed wireless Internet access. Flat screen televisions and cable TV provides ample entertainment and a delicious home cooked breakfast is served each morning. The inn is within close proximity to several popular Golden attractions, including the world-famous Red Rocks Amphitheatre and Golden Gate State National Park. Best Things to Do in Golden
711 14th Street, Golden, Colorado 80401, Phone: 303-278-2209
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19.Hilton Denver Inverness - 20 minutes from Denver
Hilton Denver Inverness in Englewood is set at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. Located 20 minutes from Denver, the resort is a fun weekend getaway. Hotel activities include golf, tennis, walking and jogging. There is also an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, whirlpools, saunas and massage services. The Golf Course is a 18-hole PGA championship course, open an average of 300 days per year. There are 284 luxury guest rooms and 18 suites. The 32 Club Floor Rooms offer exclusive access to the Mountain View Lounge for continental breakfast, and scenic views of the Rocky Mountains from the top floor of the hotel.
The suites have private balconies with a sunken living room. If you want to splurge, the most luxurious suite, the Centennial Suite, has a full kitchen, living area, dining area, private balcony, separate bedroom and an oversized whirlpool tub. Choose from five restaurants and lounges. The Swan offers fine dining in an elegant bistro setting, while the Garden Terrace is more casual. The Pub is the place to go to watch televised sporting events and the Golf Grille is conveniently located at the golf course. Take the complimentary shuttle to the Park Meadows Retail Resort for a day of shopping, or drive to Downtown Denver, 20 minutes away. Fly to Denver International Airport which a 30-minute drive away. Weekday rates start at $99 per night.
200 Inverness Drive, West Englewood, Colorado 80112, Phone: 303-799-5800
20.Brown Palace in Denver
The historic Brown Palace, located in downtown Denver first opened its doors in 1892. Since then, the hotel has accommodated celebrities, presidents and other dignitaries. If you are planning to do a lot of sightseeing on your trip, this unique property is conveniently located within walking distance of the pedestrian 16th Street Mall, the State Capitol, the Denver Center for Performing Arts and and Coors Field Baseball Park. The hotel is built around a central atrium; when in the lobby, you can enjoy soaring ceilings and when going to your room, you'll have a view of the classically furnished lobby below on your city vacation.
There is a fitness area, complimentary wireless internet access in the lobby, 24-hour room service, a full-time concierge, twice-daily maid service and overnight valet parking. Choose from 241 guest rooms and suites, some furnished in Victorian style, while others reflect Art-Deco decor. There are five restaurants, ranging from fine dining to casual fare. Room rates start at $ 152 per night on weekends.
321 17th Street, Denver, Colorado 80202,Phone: 303-297-3111
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21.Best vacation spots in Colorado: The St. Regis Aspen
The St. Regis Aspen Resort offers five star service, access to ski lifts, shops and restaurants. Relax next to the indoor and outdoor pools, visit the spa and fitness center. If you are planning a winter vacation, ski in the Aspen Highlands Ski Area, Buttermilk, and Snowmass. Each ski resort offers a ski school and skiing for all ability levels. During the summer, the town offers numerous vacation activities for outdoor enthusiasts, including fly fishing, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, and horseback riding. The hotel provides two to four hour backcountry hiking excursions led by experienced guides where guests can admire wildflowers and trees.
The 179 guest rooms are furnished in a relaxed Rocky Mountain style, featuring overstuffed leather chairs, suede pillows, wool throws, and leather tabletops. For guests who require additional space, the hotel offers two Presidential suites and 11 One-bedroom suites. The Club Floor, accessible by key-activated elevator, provides guests with additional privacy, complimentary food and beverage presentations, and personal concierge service.
The Olives Aspen restaurant, run by Chef Todd English, serves Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with a local flare. The Lobby Lounge features beautiful views, and offers a light menu with cocktails, aperitifs, wines, and beers. Doubles from $725 per night. The hotel is located 10 minutes from the Airport. You can contact the hotel to arrange transportation. Doubles from $725 per night. The hotel is located 10 minutes from the Airport.
315 East Dean St., Aspen, Colorado 81611, Phone: 970-920-3300
21 Best Weekend Getaways in Colorado
- The Little Nell, Aspen, Photo: The Little Nell
- St Julien Hotel in Downtown Boulder - 45 minutes from Denver, Photo: St Julien Hotel
- The Oxford Hotel in Denver, Photo: The Oxford Hotel
- The Leland House and Rochester Hotel, Photo: Rochester Hotel
- The Sebastian, Photo: The Sebastian
- Blue Lake Ranch Bed and Breakfast, Photo: Blue Lake Ranch Bed and Breakfast
- Taharaa Mountain Lodge - 1 hour 30 minutes from Denver, Photo: Taharaa Mountain Lodge
- Colorado vacations: Della Terra Mountain Chateau, Photo: Della Terra Mountain Chateau
- The Elizabeth Hotel, Photo: The Elizabeth Hotel
- Colorado vacations: Castle Marne Bed & Breakfast, Photo: Castle Marne Bed & Breakfast
- Colorado getaways: The Stanley Hotel, Photo: The Stanley Hotel
- Weekend getaways in Colorado: Bella Vista, Photo: Bella Vista
- Colorado vacations: Hotel Monaco Denver, Photo: Hotel Monaco Denver
- Colorado vacation spots: The Dove Inn, Photo: The Dove Inn
- The Gant Aspen - 4 hours 10 minutes from Denver, Photo: The Gant Aspen
- Colorado weekend trips: Dunton Hot Springs, Photo: Dunton Hot Springs
- Weekend getaways in Colorado: The Curtis in Denver, Photo: The Curtis
- Colorado vacation ideas: Dove Inn, Photo: Dove Inn
- Hilton Denver Inverness - 20 minutes from Denver, Photo: Hilton Denver Inverness
- Brown Palace in Denver, Photo: Brown Palace
- Best vacation spots in Colorado: The St. Regis Aspen, Photo: The St. Regis Aspen
- Cover Photo: Courtesy of aiisha - Fotolia.com
Top Colorado Destinations
Romantic Getaways in Colorado: Aspen
Known as a world-class ski destination, Aspen is beautiful year around and offers activities and attractions for all ages. Skiers can challenge their skills on the magnificent steeps, slopes and glades of Aspen Mountain or Ajax, on rugged Aspen Highlands or enormous Snowmass. Take a 14 minute ride with the Silver Queen Gondola to the top of Ajax Mountain for the spectacular views of the mountain peaks, the city below and tall evergreens all around you. There are bluegrass concerts on Sundays.
Every summer, Aspen gets taken over by classic music lovers during the renowned Aspen Music Festival and School with more than 300 concerts. Learn about Aspen from Dean Weiler during one of his popular Aspen Walking Tours and pay respect to John Denver at the John Denver Sanctuary you will pass by while hiking the picturesque Rio Grande Trail. Next read: best Aspen restaurants.
Boulder
A small mining camp not so long ago, Boulder is a modern, sophisticated town at the base of the Flatirons, popular among extreme sports folks and lovers of magnificent nature of all ages. Stroll through the charming downtown with the popular Pearl Street Mall. Discover Boulder’s past at the Boulder History Museum located in the beautiful historic Harbeck-Bergheim House. Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art not only has a range of permanent and temporary exhibits, but also popular educational programs.
Colorado vacation spots: Denver
Located at the foothills of the majestic Rocky Mountains at the elevation of one mile, Denver is a modern, vibrant city with a rich mix of industry, art and history. Explore the city’s bustling downtown with one of the guided Bikalope Tours. Visit the Kirkland Museum of Fine and Decorative Art that includes works of more than 80 internationally recognized architects such as Frank Lloyd Wright. Denver Art Museum has 68,000 art pieces from all over the world and a significant collection of American Indian Art.
Try to catch a Colorado Rockies game at their home Coors Baseball Field or a concert of the Colorado Symphony at the Denver Performing Arts Center. Kids will enjoy exploring Denver zoo with its 4,000 animals or playing at the interactive The Children's Museum of Denver.
Colorado Springs
Located on the banks of Fountain Creek and overshadowed by the slopes of Fort Range, Colorado Springs is the city of sports, the place where American Olympians train and where everyone goes out to ski or hike on the weekend. There are 15 trails through the magnificent Garden of the Gods Park with its rugged red rock formations.
The highest you can hike is Pikes Peak at 14,115 feet, the highest in the Rockies. With so much great climbing opportunities, Colorado Springs is a great place to learn to rock climb. Front Range Climbing Company and First Ascent Mountain School offer classes for any skill level. Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site offers a glimpse into the past with the 1860 log cabin and the 1880 farm house. Western Museum of Mining & Industry tells the story of the mining in the area and Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers a home to more than 950 animals, 30 of them endangered.
Romantic Getaways in Colorado: Fort Collins
Home to the Colorado State University, Fort Collins grew around 1864 Fort Collins, a US Army military outpost that is today the historic Fort Collins downtown. Explore the city on the historic Fort Collins Trolley and learn about the culture and history of the people of the Cache La Poudre River Valley at the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery.
Explore the nearby great outdoors at the Horsetooth Mountain Open Space or get your adrenaline pumping by rafting on Cache La Poudre River with the Mountain Whitewater Descents Company. Visit Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures to learn about folk art from all over the world. Take the kids to the Farm at Lee Martinez Park to learn about the farm life and play with baby farm animals.
Steamboat Springs
Located in the valley of the Yampa River, Steamboat Springs is world-famous for its fantastic skiing and healing hot springs. With 165 main trails spread across 2,965 acres on the Mount Werner Park Range, Steamboat Ski Resort is one of the largest in the country. Another great winter fun is dog sledding with Grizzle-T Dog Sledding and their Alaskan Huskies.
Take a 7.5 mile hike on the Yampa River Core Trail along this picturesque river, and then jump into one of the hot pools at the Strawberry Park Hot Springs. Tread of Pioneers Museum tells the story of Steamboat Springs past and is located in a beautiful Queen Anne-style Victorian house. Take a ride with the Steamboat Scenic Gondola up the slopes of Mount Werner for some spectacular views of the area.
Crested Butte
Once a small silver and coal mining town, Crested Butte is today one of the world famous ski destinations and the place which claims to have invented mountain biking. Crested Butte Mountain Resort is famous for its excellent slopes, especially for its challenging North Face and Headwall.
While the kids are having fun, you might want to visit Montanya Distillers, they make two good rums: Platino Light and Oro Dark Rum. Learn about the history of Crested Butte and Gunnison Valley at the Crested Butte Mountain Heritage Museum, located at Tony’s Conoco, a 1883 former blacksmith shop and a favorite Crested Butte local hangout.
Driving Distances from Denver
| From Denver, CO To | Driving Time |
| Aspen, CO | 4 hours and 10 minutes |
| Boulder | 45 minutes |
| Edwards, CO | 2 hours and 40 minutes |
| Hesperus, Colorado | 6 hours and 15 minutes |
| Estes Park, Colorado | 1 hour and 30 minutes |
| Durango | 6 hours |
| Englewood, Colorado | 20 minutes |
| Keystone, CO | 2 hours and 10 minutes |
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More Ideas: Wolf Creek Ski Area
Wolf Creek Ski Area, located in the Southern San Juan Mountains and specifically near the summit of Wolf Creek Pass, is a one of a kind skiing destination that is known for the “Most Snow in Colorado”. An exceptional variety of terrain, refined lift system inclusive of ten lifts total and abundant snowfall makes Wolf Creek a place for everyone to enjoy.
History
The first ski lift, a small rope tow powered by an International Truck bottom-drive, was built near the summit of Wolf Creek Ski Area providing skiers an optional lift each Sunday. In 1955, the ski area moved to its present location and a new platter lift was installed. Kingsbury Pitcher, patriarch of the family who owns and operates Wolf Creek, acquired Wolf Creek Ski Area under Lake Peak Corporation in 1976. By 1984 Lake Peak Corporation was sold and Wolf Creek, a subsidiary, was acquired by Mr. Pitcher. The Pitchers have expanded the ski area to a total of ten lifts and 1,600 acres, featuring over 130 trails. The mountain offers skiers and boarders of all abilities an excellent selection of terrain with 20% being for beginners, 35% intermediate and 25% advanced and 20% for experts.
Permanent Attractions
The main attraction at the Wolf Creek Ski Area is the excellent skiing! The low-density skiing experience at Wolf Creek Ski Area makes Wolf Creek a destination hot spot for powder hounds, families and new skiers alike.
Wolf Creek offers professional group and private lessons complimented by an excellent variety of clinics. Skiers and boarders of all ages and ability levels will have no problem finding a lesson to introduce them to the sport or improve their skill set.
Wolf Creek offers professional group and private lessons complimented by an excellent variety of clinics. Skiers and boarders of all ages and ability levels will have no problem finding a lesson to introduce them to the sport or improve their skill set. To eliminate the stress of coordinating pick-up and meet up times for families and friends taking lessons, Wolf Creek runs all group classes at concurrent times.
All group lessons are available online for purchase and reservation, in addition to gift cards, premium demo rentals and retail. Group lessons are also available at the Ticket Office the morning of skiers and boarders first day. During holiday periods it is best to book online or purchase lessons first thing in the morning.
Wolf Creek stands out from other ski areas in Colorado not only for being family owned and operated, but for also having affordable lift tickets and lesson options. Wolf Creek also has convenient amenities that are at no cost, like paved parking and shuttle services.
Wolf Creek Ski Area offers 1,600 acres of alluring terrain for all types of skiers and boarders. The base elevation is 10,300 feet with a summit elevation of 11,904 feet. Skiers and boarders can enjoy a two-mile long run with Navajo Trail; Wolf Creek’s longest trail. The annual natural snowfall of 430 inches has earned Wolf Creek the title of having the “Most Snow in Colorado”. A typical ski season at Wolf Creek runs from Early November through early April each year, but has been known to be the earliest to open in the country in mid-October.
Wolf Creek has a refined lift network inclusive of ten lifts that service over 1,600 incredibly beautiful acres of terrain. Lifts range from high-speed detachable quads and triple chairlifts to rolling conveyors. A full list of lifts and stats can be found by visiting WolfCreekSki.com.
Skiers and boarders who visit Wolf Creek should be aware that weather conditions have the possibility to change rapidly. It is highly recommended to dress warmer and in layers that can be taken off if the temperature warms up. A waterproof outer layer is also highly recommended.
Wolf Creek’s altitude exposes guests to a higher amount of UV rays making sunscreen crucial, even on cloudy days. It is extremely important to apply and reapply sunscreen. There is also the potential to develop altitude sickness by gaining altitude too quickly, resulting in a lack of oxygen - symptoms may include headaches, nausea, and confusion. Acclimation is key to avoiding altitude sickness.
Special Events
Wolf Creek holds many different special clinics, events and discounted ticket days throughout the season. A complete calendar events is located on their website, WolfCreekSki.com, to keep people in the loop.
Wolf Creek also has a number of scheduled Local appreciation days throughout the season. Everyone is considered a local on the thirteen days skiers and boarders can purchase a discounted full-day, all-mountain lift ticket. Specific dates can be found on the Wolf Creek website. College students are also offered special ticket days. Students with a valid college ID and a current, printed class schedule can purchase a discounted lift ticket during the select College Days.
A weekly event everyone in the family can enjoy at Wolf Creek is the Fun Race Series. The weekly race series gives friends and family the opportunity to race against one another in the modified giant slalom. Races begin at 11:00 a.m. and are set up in a dual race format. The race is at no cost to participants with a lift ticket and open to all age groups and abilities with an award ceremony at 3:30 on the main sun deck. The top three racers in each age bracket win Gold, Silver and Bronze medals.
Dining and Shopping
Adding to Wolf Creek’s uniqueness is the delicious homemade food found in all eateries, both in the base area and on mountain. Wolf Creek has a great variety of restaurants, ranging from a pizzeria and grill to espresso bar, each with their own menus, specialties and deals. Guests can find a perfectly grilled Wolf Burger, homemade Santa Fe style green chili, a great gourmet salad bar, handmade pizza, sandwiches made to order, and a great variety of fresh baked desserts among Wolf Creek’s eight restaurants and cafes. Guests can also stop by Treasure Sports and purchase souvenirs from their trip to the Southern San Juan Mountains. Stickers, glassware, hoodies, custom t-shirts and much more make for a perfect token of the ski trip. Wolf Creek’s eStore also has t-shirts and souvenirs, in addition to skis and snowboards, for guests to purchase if they aren’t able to visit in person.
Wolf Creek Ski Area, PO Box 2800, Pagosa Springs, CO, 81147, Phone: 970-264-5639
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More Ideas: Rocky Mountain Wildlife Park
The Rocky Mountain Wildlife Park, in Pagosa Springs, Colorado, is a privately owned and operated way to see and learn about the local wildlife in a safe environment. The mission of the park is educating visitors about the native wildlife in their natural habitats, up close and personally.
History
The Rocky Mountain Wildlife Park opened to the general public in 1986. All of the animals that live at the park are considered non-releasable back into the wild, for a variety of reason. Some are former pets, some were raised in captivity, and others have been injured and are in the process of being rehabilitated. The park receives absolutely no funding from either state or federal sources and exists solely based on admission fees and donations. The wildlife park welcomes thousands of visitors every year.
Permanent Attractions
The best way to see the wildlife park is by taking one of the daily tours offered by the knowledgeable staff. These tours are always offered during the park’s structured feeding times, which allow guests to get to know the animals, learn about their diet, and see them interact with the staff. Guides will teach visitors not only about each species, but also about each individual animal (names, ages, etc). Each tour lasts just about an hour, and guests will walk half a mile on a gravel path. Due to the gravel, this can be a difficult path for those with strollers or wheelchairs to navigate (those who have had success generally suggest larger wheels or an assistant who is strong enough to push it). For guests who do not feel they are able to make the tour, there is a covered area for them to wait out of the direct sunlight. Come prepared for the weather - umbrellas, mud boots, etc.
Group tours and private tours are available by reservation.
There are fifteen species of animals that call the wildlife park. The park has black bears, mountain lions, elk, wolves, bobcats, and more. There are also many cats that call the grounds home.
Guests are reminded to make sure not to attempt to touch any of the animals, they are still wild and can be dangerous. Do not throw anything into their cages, either. Always stay on the designated path and do not run, as it can excite the animals. Smoking is not allowed.
There is also an education room that is meant for the younger visitors to the wildlife park. This area contains scavenger hunts, interactive exhibits, and other wildlife themed information meant to educate children specifically.
The wildlife park also offers horseback trail rides. The rides are designed so that all levels of experience are welcome, from beginners to experienced riders. Beginners will enjoy the half an hour or hour-long trail rides, leading riders slowly through meadows. More experienced riders will want to try the two-hour ride, leading through the National Forest. Each trail ride is led by a knowledgeable wrangler and tour guide and can be booked from May through September. Riders must be at least six years old and will have to ride on their own horse (no doubles will be allowed). Full day and overnight tours can also be arranged with prior reservation.
Educational Opportunities
With prior arrangement, groups of school children are welcome to come to the Rocky Mountain Wildlife Park. Field trips are a great way of allowing children to see the animals that they have been studying and to learn about their diets, habitats, life spans, and other information while being able to see that animal in front of them. The knowledgeable tour guides will speak to children on their level. Teachers should contact the staff prior to a visit to reserve time as well as to discuss any applicable lesson plans. Private tours can also be arranged during the off season. It is recommended to book tours as far in advance as possible, due to the small size of both the wildlife park and the amount of staff that work there. It is recommended to bring at least one adult chaperone for every few children, especially younger students, as the area is potentially dangerous for unattended children.
Shopping
Guests should make sure to stop by the Rocky Mountain Wildlife Park gift shop and art gallery. Merchandise that is purchased here will go back into supporting the care of the animals and helping to keep the doors open and the staff paid. There are stuffed animals, art work, apparel, and themed merchandise for all budgets.
Rocky Mountain Wildlife Park, 4821 A U.S. Highway 84, Pagosa Springs, CO, 81147, Phone: 970-264-4515
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