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7-Day Itinerary in Colorado

Friday, December 22: Arrival in Denver

Welcome to the beautiful state of Colorado! Start your trip by flying into Denver, the capital city known for its vibrant arts scene and outdoor activities. In the morning, explore the Denver Botanic Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. In the afternoon, visit the Denver Art Museum, showcasing a diverse collection of art from around the world. As the evening sets in, take a stroll along the lively 16th Street Mall, filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.

  • Denver Botanic Gardens: Cost Estimate - $15, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Denver Art Museum: Cost Estimate - $10-15, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • 16th Street Mall: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - Flexible
Saturday, December 23: Rocky Mountain National Park

Embark on a day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, where you'll be surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. In the morning, drive to the park and start your adventure with a hike along the scenic Bear Lake Trail. In the afternoon, explore the Trail Ridge Road, one of the highest paved roads in North America, offering stunning vistas of the Rocky Mountains. As the evening approaches, enjoy a picnic amidst nature before heading back to your accommodation.

  • Bear Lake Trail: Cost Estimate - Park Entrance Fee ($25 per vehicle), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Trail Ridge Road: Cost Estimate - Park Entrance Fee ($25 per vehicle), Time Spent - Flexible
Sunday, December 24: Colorado Springs

Today, visit the charming city of Colorado Springs, located at the foot of the famous Pikes Peak. In the morning, take a guided tour of the magnificent Garden of the Gods, known for its towering red rock formations. In the afternoon, ride the Pikes Peak Cog Railway to the summit of Pikes Peak, where you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. As the evening sets in, explore the historic Old Colorado City, filled with quaint shops and restaurants.

  • Garden of the Gods: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Pikes Peak Cog Railway: Cost Estimate - $40-60, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
  • Old Colorado City: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - Flexible
Monday, December 25: Durango and Silverton

Experience the beauty of the San Juan Mountains by taking a scenic train journey from Durango to Silverton. In the morning, board the historic Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and enjoy the picturesque ride through breathtaking canyons and forests. In the afternoon, explore the charming town of Silverton, known for its old-world charm and mining history. As the evening approaches, savor a delicious meal at one of the local restaurants before heading back to Durango.

  • Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad: Cost Estimate - $100-150, Time Spent - 6-8 hours
  • Exploring Silverton: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Tuesday, December 26: Mesa Verde National Park

Discover the ancient cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the morning, take a guided tour to explore the well-preserved ruins and learn about the fascinating history of the Ancestral Puebloans. In the afternoon, hike along the scenic trails and marvel at the stunning views of the surrounding canyons. As the evening sets in, enjoy a peaceful sunset at one of the park's overlooks before heading back to your accommodation.

  • Mesa Verde National Park: Cost Estimate - Park Entrance Fee ($30 per vehicle), Time Spent - 4-6 hours
Wednesday, December 27: Aspen

Visit the world-renowned mountain town of Aspen, known for its ski resorts and upscale amenities. In the morning, hit the slopes of Aspen Mountain or explore the scenic trails if you prefer non-winter activities. In the afternoon, wander through the charming streets of downtown Aspen and indulge in some shopping or visit the Aspen Art Museum. As the evening approaches, treat yourself to a fine dining experience at one of the town's exquisite restaurants.

  • Aspen Mountain: Cost Estimate - Lift Ticket ($150-200), Time Spent - Flexible
  • Aspen Art Museum: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Exploring Downtown Aspen: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - Flexible
Thursday, December 28: Boulder

End your Colorado adventure in the lively city of Boulder, known for its outdoor recreation opportunities and vibrant culture. In the morning, hike to the iconic Flatirons and enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes. In the afternoon, explore the Pearl Street Mall, filled with unique shops, restaurants, and street performers. As the evening sets in, visit the Celestial Seasonings Tea Factory for a guided tour and sample a variety of delicious teas.

  • Hiking the Flatirons: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Pearl Street Mall: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - Flexible
  • Celestial Seasonings Tea Factory: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Colorado, be sure to visit the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, where you can hike on the tallest sand dunes in North America and enjoy breathtaking views. Another hidden gem is the town of Telluride, known for its stunning mountain scenery, charming main street, and world-class skiing opportunities. Locals also love the scenic drive on the Million Dollar Highway, offering jaw-dropping views of the San Juan Mountains.

For the best hotel and flight prices during your trip to Colorado, check out Kayak.

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