Start your trip in Denver, the capital city of Colorado. In the morning, visit the Denver Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals. Enjoy a picnic lunch at City Park and then head to the Downtown Aquarium in the afternoon. As the evening sets in, take a stroll along the 16th Street Mall, a pedestrian-friendly street filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
Head south to Colorado Springs. Start your day by visiting the Garden of the Gods, a stunning park with red rock formations. In the afternoon, explore the Manitou Cliff Dwellings, where you can see ancient Native American cliff dwellings up close. End your day with a relaxing ride on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Travel to Boulder, a charming city nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains. Start your day with a hike in Chautauqua Park and enjoy the beautiful scenery. In the afternoon, visit the Pearl Street Mall, where you'll find shops, restaurants, and street performers. Wrap up your day with a visit to the Celestial Seasonings Tea Factory for a free tour and tea tasting.
On Thanksgiving Day, make your way to the charming town of Aspen. Start your morning with a scenic gondola ride up Aspen Mountain. In the afternoon, go ice skating at the Silver Circle Ice Rink, followed by a delicious Thanksgiving dinner at one of the many fantastic restaurants in town.
Head to Rocky Mountain National Park for a day of outdoor adventures. Start your day by driving on Trail Ridge Road, one of America's most scenic highways. In the afternoon, hike to Alberta Falls and take in the breathtaking beauty of the park. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way. End your day with a picnic dinner as you admire the stunning views.
Make your way to Mesa Verde National Park to explore the fascinating ancient cliff dwellings. Start your day with a guided tour of Cliff Palace, the park's largest cliff dwelling. In the afternoon, visit the Spruce Tree House and hike to Balcony House for even more unique archaeological sites. Learn about the rich history of the Ancestral Pueblo people as you explore the park.
End your trip by unwinding in the natural hot springs of Glenwood Springs. Soak in the healing waters and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Take a leisurely stroll along the Hanging Lake Trail and marvel at the stunning beauty of the turquoise lake and waterfalls. Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa treatment before departing.
For off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals, consider visiting the Butterfly Pavilion in Westminster, where you can interact with countless butterflies in a beautiful indoor garden. Enjoy a scenic drive along the Million Dollar Highway between Durango and Ouray, showcasing stunning views of the San Juan Mountains. Don't miss the quirky Bishop Castle, a unique handmade castle in Rye that's a true labor of love. These family-friendly attractions offer unique experiences beyond the typical tourist spots.
Before embarking on your Colorado adventure, make sure to check hotel and flight prices on Kayak. This will help you find the best deals and ensure a comfortable and convenient stay throughout your trip.